I first started experiencing symptoms around 8 years old. I would get tummy pain and blood in my stool. When I went to the doctors, I was told I was just going through puberty or experiencing bad period pains, but I knew it was much more. I didn’t feel heard. My teenage years flew by, and by the time I was looking at going to university, Bristol seemed like a great choice as it was local to me.

My symptoms began to intensify during my first year. I was experiencing a lot of pain, taking frequent trips to the toilet and at times, didn’t leave the house for weeks on end.

I started to miss a lot of classes, and although some lecturers were sympathetic, others were less so, and I started to worry how this would impact my degree. I decided to go to the doctor’s once more, and this time I felt heard. I underwent many tests, including colonoscopies, and after consultations for about a year, I was finally diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease.

To hear my diagnosis felt validating after years of being told there was nothing wrong. It was once I was diagnosed, that I finally felt supported. I have specifically felt the most support and empathy from IBD nurses. They have always been so understanding and are swift to respond if I ever have a question or concern. Having such great support from them has also been a relief for my mum and dad, as she knows I finally have a larger support system to rely on. 

Since I’ve left university, I have been embracing getting stuck into my dream career, working in TV and film production. Throughout my degree, I always questioned whether it would even be possible for me to achieve this dream, given my condition. But now, I’m determined to raise awareness in the industry about Crohn’s and show other people that no matter what your condition, you can thrive and be successful in a workplace. I found a great internship; with a company called Babassa, who strive to support underrepresented people in the industry.

I’m lucky that my employer is very understanding. It can be a lot for a workplace to handle, with regular appointments and time off work. But an understanding and inclusive workplace should be there to support you.

Sometimes working in my industry can be challenging, with long shifts and catering options that aren’t always suitable for my dietary needs. But I’m proud to have persevered and have worked on some fantastic television projects since I started my career, including BBC’s Chelsea Flower Show. I’ve even met other people in the industry with IBD conditions.

My condition still impacts me each day, but I feel so proud of what I have achieved, and I’m passionate about advocating for worker’s rights who experience IBD conditions, especially in the TV and film industry. I’d love to help other young people who want to break into the industry and who have an IBD condition, to thrive. Whatever your goal may be, nothing is impossible!