My name is Ellen, I am 26 and I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 2007 when I was 14. Since then I've been on various medications, and had countless colonoscopies and blood tests, but I managed my condition pretty well until 2016. Since then it feels like I've been in a constant flare-up. I was started on biologic treatment (through an IV) in 2017, but both Infliximab and Vedolizumab failed to tame my symptoms. In October 2018 I made the decision to have surgery rather than take part in a drug trial, because I just wanted an end to it all. UC was ruling my life - I couldn't work, couldn't plan ahead... I couldn't even leave the house. 

In January 2019, I had a laparoscopic sub-total colectomy with end ileostomy. My colon was removed, and the end of my small bowel pulled through the abdominal wall, so that I now have a stoma and bag to collect waste. Yup, I poop in a bag! A year ago, this was the worst case scenario. Now, I know it was the best decision I have ever made. I'm only a month post-surgery but the freedom I am already experiencing makes it all worth it. I can walk my dog again, I can sit and watch a whole film, I can go on long car journeys, and can eat ice cream and chocolate... I love my stoma and I don't ever want to go back! 

I took part in Walk It in 2013, and I can't wait to do it again with my friends by my side.