Ashley Zuchelli: Navigating Crohn's (E99)

Ashley Zuchelli shares her journey with Crohn's disease, from the onset of symptoms to her recent diagnosis. She discusses the challenges she faced in finding a doctor who would listen and the frustration of not knowing what was causing her symptoms. Ashley also talks about the impact of Crohn's on her work and how she manages anxiety. Finally, she shares her motivation for advocacy and raising awareness about IBD. In this conversation, Ashley Zuchelli shares her journey with IBD and the challenges she faced in getting a diagnosis. She emphasizes the importance of realizing when something is wrong and seeking help, even when faced with fears and uncertainties. The conversation also highlights the difficulties doctors face in diagnosing IBD and the need for patients to advocate for themselves. Ashley encourages listeners to not give up on their goals, to prioritize their health, and to listen to our bodies and not dismiss symptoms.

Takeaways

• Finding a supportive and understanding doctor is crucial in the journey to diagnosis and treatment.
• Managing anxiety and stress is important for overall well-being and symptom management.
• Having a flexible work schedule can be beneficial for individuals with IBD to accommodate flare-ups and self-care.
• Sharing personal stories and advocating for awareness can help others going through similar experiences.
• Realizing when something is wrong and seeking help is crucial for managing IBD.
• Don't let fears and uncertainties prevent you from seeking the care you need.
• Advocate for yourself and communicate your symptoms and concerns to your doctor.
• Don't give up on your goals and prioritize your health.
• Connect with others who have similar experiences for support and guidance.

Topics covered in the interview

• Ashley's Journey with Crohn's Disease
• Seeking a New Doctor for a Diagnosis
• Diagnosis and Treatment
• Managing Anxiety and Balancing Work
• Realizing Something's Wrong
• The Importance of Seeking Help
• The Challenges of Diagnosing IBD
• Don't Give Up on Your Goals
• Don't Disregard Your Body's Signals

From the show

Stephanie: What have you done over the years to help manage anxiety?

Ashley: I would say meal prepping actually soothes me and it keeps my mind at ease because I know if I am hungry or if…I’m feeling good that day, I have food ready for me and it just makes me happy just cooking in the kitchen…And then I started doing the HelloFresh program, where I get ingredients sent to me and then I just cook. I don't have to think about the recipes. They have dietary restrictions on there of things you can and cannot eat, so that helps my anxiety—to make sure I have the food I need when I have a long day at work or if we go travel.

feeling so great today or, you know, I do have that type of job where if I wasn't feeling well, I can block that time and deal with what I need to deal with. If I had a flare or upset stomach from eating something or just.

Stephanie: How do you balance work and work in IBD?

Ashley: You know, Crohn's being Crohn's, acting up when it's not the best time, so I was just honest with my clients. Like if I didn't feel well, like I have to go to the bathroom, [saying] I'll be right back. We don't discuss what happens in the bathroom, but they know I need a moment to break away because of issues going on…I am grateful that I have the luxury to make my own schedule when a flare happens.

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