Helpline
Need to talk, need support? What is our helpline for?
Five times Olympic rowing champion Sir Steve Redgrave was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis back in 1992. Sir Steve regularly enjoys raising awareness for our charity and supported us by recording an episode for our Crohn's & Colitis UK podcast.
Sir Steve Redgrave shared his diagnosis story with us here. He told us - "I got really sick with Colitis 15 weeks before I had to compete at the Barcelona Olympics. I was in the loo 10 times a day, my performance was tailing off, I was in agony. I look back now and realise how sick I was. Colitis is something you just can’t control. I’m married to a doctor, so I was really lucky that she realised there was something major going on and got me some help."
As well as recording Episode 5 of our Crohn's & Colitis UK podcast with us: Confronting Colitis with Olympic and Dancing on Ice Star Sir Steve Redgrave, in January 2025, Sir Steve participated in ITV's Dancing on Ice. Sir Steve collaborated on social media posts with our charity surrounding the television series.
There were times when it seemed as if Colitis would prevent me from reaching that fifth gold medal but, with the right medical treatment, I've been able to keep the illness under control and continue with my life, both in training during my career as a professional athlete and in my life beyond the boat.
Many others aren't as fortunate - for them, just trying to lead a normal life is a real test of courage and determination. I know the impact of these diseases - it's important to have good information, understanding and support.
Sir Steve Redgrave
Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 1992
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We know it can be difficult to live with, or support someone living with these conditions. But you’re not alone. We provide up-to-date, evidence-based information and can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis.
Our helpline team can help by:
Providing information about Crohn’s and Colitis.
Listening and talking through your situation.
Helping you to find support from others in the Crohn’s and Colitis community.
Providing details of other specialist organisations.
Please be aware we’re not medically or legally trained. We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.
Please contact us via telephone, email or LiveChat - 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (except English bank holidays).
If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.
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