Recognizing Diversity in the IBD Community

During Black History Month, we are sharing the stories of Black patients living with IBD. Our first story comes from Anita Ford, who has ulcerative colitis.
 
"I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis when I was 17 years old. Bright-eyed and full of plans for the future, I didn’t know I was about to experience a life-altering diagnosis that would soon change me forever," Anita says.
 
“My dreams of making an impact on the world around me only became bigger after becoming a Mental Health Therapist. I believe we all have the capacity within us to make a difference. Having an invisible illness changes a person. The stress and uncertainty that goes along with having an incurable illness often causes confusion, doubt and frustration.
 
I’m an ulcerative colitis warrior who chooses joy when life happens. Having an illness doesn’t have to stop you from achieving your goals and dreams. In fact, I believe some of life’s greatest pioneers fight battles that no one knows about. You can achieve anything you set your mind to. There isn’t any illness that can stop you from becoming all that you are destined to become. You are not alone in this fight. Reach out to other IBD warriors and pour into each other. We are here on this earth to be a blessing. Every battle we face in this life better equips us to help someone in the future. Spread a little bit of joy everywhere you go!" 
 
- Anita Ford
Mental Health Therapist, Blogger, Speaker, Writer, and Colitis Warrior