To no-one's surprise, a year of medical leave has been extremely beneficial: I've been able to re-evaluate what I really want and how to put my health first. It's hard not to wonder how with my health might have been without the past year.

Making a film is about listening. Being open. Accepting and rejecting ideas for the right reason. Without the journey to becoming a Crohn’s fighter, I would not be nearly as a good a filmmaker. Having Crohn’s even inspired my first feature film.

Despite facing adversities in life, I feel I have been successful in balancing a career in law and maintaining good well-being. One of the most challenging situations was managing my symptoms, nerves and gut when taking a case to Crown Court.

The success I achieved in the gym transferred outside. I started doing more things that made me happy, like going out to eat without fear of my bag leaking. Fitness is still a big part of my life; I just qualified as a personal trainer so I can help others.

I was diagnosed with Crohn's in 1972, when there was very little available in terms of support and advice. But I did join the charity in its infancy – known as the National Association for Crohn's and Colitis – and have been a member ever since.