Partners in Crohn’s: Gavin & Diana

This Take Steps power couple doesn’t let Crohn’s disease stand in their way!

When were you diagnosed with Crohn's disease?

Diana: I began to develop serious intestinal issues after taking acne medications, ultimately leading to my Crohn's disease diagnosis at the age of 21 during my senior year of college.

Gavin: I was diagnosed at age 27. I experienced rapid weight loss, resulting in two different surgeries to create an ostomy and to remove 2 feet of my intestines. 

 

How did you meet?

Diana: We met on the hinge app! We connected immediately. I remember one of the first questions I asked Gavin was, “What is your favorite food?” I remember in his response that he mentioned he had a lot of dietary restrictions because of his Crohn's Disease. I thought it was such a strange coincidence that we both had that in common! 

Gavin: Crohn’s made me very hesitant to meet up with people during COVID-19, but Diana was very understanding about everything. Once we both found out we had Crohn’s disease, it made it much easier on both of us to plan things we were both comfortable with.

 

What was it like dating with IBD?

Diana: Having a significant other who understands this disease has brought me great comfort. Sharing this experience has brought us so much closer and has allowed us to connect on a deeper level. Gavin and I met in the height of COVID-19 in the spring of 2020. Being immunocompromised, we were both extremely cautious about being around others. We almost didn’t meet up! I thank my lucky stars every day that an algorithm brought us together. There’s no one else I’d rather tell bathroom jokes with. 

Gavin: Having someone to share this disease makes it much easier on me. Diana certainly knows where I am coming from if I don’t feel good or having an off day. Crohn’s disease affects us both differently so it is nice to bounce things off of each other and figure out what works best.

 

What are you most looking forward to this year with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation?

Gavin: I am really excited for the Greater Boston Take Steps walk to be in person this year. It will be nice to make connections with others in the IBD community.

Diana: I am looking forward to attending more in-person events this year! I think it will be so powerful being able to join a physical community of others who share similar experiences to me. I am also excited to learn more about the research around Crohn’s and Colitis and to continue fundraising for treatments for those suffering from these diseases.