Tell us a little about yourself?
My names Kate Coventry, I’m 28 and live in Cardiff! I work as a town planner in development and in my spare time like to travel and keep fit!
Can you share a bit about your journey with Crohn's Disease and how it has impacted your life?
I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in 2019 after around a year of complications and symptoms. It felt at first like my life had flipped upside down. I didn’t know anyone closely with this disease and didn’t know much about it! But through brilliant support from my family, friends, housemate and medical team they made the journey easier to cope with.
What made you choose to volunteer on the Young Adults Advisory Panel?
The opportunity came at the right point in my life, I was in a place where I was accepting of my diagnosis and wanted to help others! This felt like the right time and role.
For anyone thinking of volunteering, what words of advice would you give them?
Go for it! You will learn so much, feel very supported and make connections and friends with a range of people who also have lived experience of Crohn’s or colitis. It’s been incredibly beneficial for my own personal journey as well as knowing I am helping both the charity and others with these illnesses.
Why did the Young Adults Advisory Panel want to get involved in My WALK IT 2024 what were your motivations?
We want to raise money for this charity who have given all of us so much support and information during our individual journeys. As a panel they actively listen to us and support us as young people.
What are you most looking forward to through your My WALK IT challenge?
Challenging myself but also spending time reflecting on my journey since 2019.
Do you have any plans to keep you motivated throughout the challenge?
Chocolate, chocolate and maybe some water! My partner will be walking with me, so he will keep the moral up with silly jokes and stories!
What advice would you give to someone who has recently been diagnosed with Crohn's Disease/Colitis or suspects they may have it?
You’re not alone. It feels lonely, but there’s many people out there who can relate and understand, although every journey is different. Educate yourself using reliable sources like the Crohn's & Colitis UK page and NHS website.
Talk to your loved ones, communicate with your medical team. Don’t feel like you’re a burden, as you aren’t!
Kate
Living with Crohn's Disease
In what ways has living with Crohn's Disease changed your perspective on life?
It was a challenge I had never planned for but it has shaped me as a person. I am stronger both physically and mentally from it. I don’t see it as a battle against the illness but instead a new way of life and one I want to work with not against!
There's still time to sign up for My WALK IT!
By participating in this challenge, you’re not only embarking on a personal adventure but also contributing to a vital cause. Join us in raising awareness and funds to support those affected by Crohn’s and Colitis across the UK. Each step you take brings us closer to finding a cure.
