KEAGAN'S STORY

My name is Keagan Lynggard and about two years ago in March of 2006; I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Since my diagnosis my life has been a bit of a roller coaster ride. I have undergone 6 surgeries, and have had multiple fistulas (which are like small tunnels of your intestines that break through the surface of your skin). I have had 5 PICC lines (which are long term IV’s) which allowed me to intake my calories and vitamins intravenously through TPN (an IV formula to help me gain weight) I have also experienced “pig tail” drains as well as had multiple abdominal abscesses aspirated. I have had two colostomies (which is when surgeons take a portion of the large intestine and bring it to the surface of your abdomen which allows your remaining intestine a chance to “rest”) and I am currently living with an ileostomy (which is similar to a colostomy except it is a portion of your small intestine) and an active fistula. My battle with this disease has been a definite struggle, but with the love and support of those around me I take it as an opportunity to meet wonderful people and become more aware of how much I appreciate life.

One of my greatest appreciations is the IBD Support Foundation. Every month I look forward to going to the group meetings, not only to discuss and share the everyday struggles of IBD but to see the friends I have become so close with through the foundation. Group meetings allow all of us under going the pressures of IBD to “vent” and escape to a place of comfort and relief. The advisors give great advice as well as support. I am so grateful for the IBD support Foundation; for it has helped me through each twist, turn and loop of my so called “roller coaster” life.