Having Crohn's Means Being Ready for Any Unexpected Situation – Alma Felix

Life with Crohn's disease is anything but predictable. One moment, you're managing well; the next, a flare-up, an allergic reaction, or an unexpected medical complication can derail everything.   

This is the reality that Alma Felix so powerfully captures in her memoir, The Stress of Having Crohn's Disease and a Colon Transplant. Her journey highlights a fundamental truth that when living with Crohn's, being prepared is not just a choice; it's a necessity.

Medical Preparedness

Felix describes how critical it is to anticipate medical emergencies. She recalls situations where a single misdiagnosis could have led to unnecessary organ removal and how her determination to seek second opinions saved her life. 

Her story shows the importance of knowing your body, advocating for yourself, and staying informed about your condition.

For many with Crohn's, it's common to keep an emergency kit with medications, ostomy supplies, or nutritional supplements. Staying in constant communication with healthcare providers and not hesitating to challenge medical decisions is important.

Traveling with Crohn's

Felix's relocation experiences, from New York to Florida to Port St. Lucie, shed light on the challenges of managing Crohn's while adapting to new medical environments. She learned firsthand that different locations mean different healthcare systems, insurance policies, and accessibility to specialists.

For those with Crohn's, traveling includes mapping out nearby hospitals and pharmacies at your destination, carrying a doctor's note for medications and an extra supply of prescriptions, and packing high-nutrition, gut-friendly snacks in case food options are limited.

The Emotional Toll of Readiness

Beyond the physical aspects, there is an emotional weight to constantly being on guard. Felix describes it as the mental strain of hospitalizations, treatment side effects, and medical uncertainty. At one point, she had to prepare herself for the possibility of losing her colon entirely, which can be a devastating thought for anyone facing chronic illness.

To manage the emotional impact of Crohn's, Felix turned to faith, resilience, and patient advocacy. Her experiences serve as a reminder that while medical readiness is vital, so is mental strength. Building a support system, staying connected with other Crohn's patients, and seeking therapy when needed can be just as crucial as carrying an emergency kit.

Lessons from Alma Felix's Journey

Felix's story is a powerful guide for those living with Crohn's disease. Here's what we can learn from her preparedness:

Knowledge is power: 

The more you understand about Crohn's, the better you can advocate for yourself.

Never settle for one opinion:

Second (or even third) opinions can make a life-changing difference.

Prepare for anything:

From daily supplies to long-term treatment plans, readiness is the key to stability.

Your voice matters:

Don't be afraid to ask questions, challenge doctors, and push for the best care possible.

Crohn's disease demands a unique kind of readiness that blends medical knowledge, emotional resilience, and proactive planning. Alma Felix's memoir is more than just a story; it's a survival guide for anyone facing the unpredictability of chronic illness.

Are you or someone you know managing Crohn's? 

Don't forget to read The Stress of Having Crohn's Disease and a Colon Transplant.