December 1-7th is National Crohn’s & Colitis Awareness, and this is a story I have debated on telling.  But I do think it’s important.

Once Isaac and I got back from Washington State, we concentrated on what to do next, but we didn’t have long.  Our daughter, Abigail, decided to make her appearance early and then overstayed.  She was born 5 weeks early, breached, emergency c-section, and got her own room at the NICU.

During the whole pregnancy, I couldn’t keep food down, I was tired, but figured it was due to being pregnant…I had never done this before.  I thought I was bad it.

Almost 6 weeks to the day after Abigail’s birth, I found myself back at the hospital.  I had a sharp pain in my right side and was afraid I had a ruptured appendix.  After a some tests, the doctor came in and harshly told me I had Crohn’s disease.  Which is where your body attacks your digestive system, super fun.

I spend a total of 4 months in the hospital.  One bowel obstruction, and one surgery before it was all done.  We were strangely blessed to have Isaac home.  If he had been working, I am not sure what we would have done.

I have been in remission for almost 8 years now, and have a GREAT medical team and family support.

Crohn’s made it to where I had to be released from the military, and school was no longer a priority.  But it has given me a whole new outlook on life and that a moment can change everything.  That’s why I love weddings.  That moment you no longer are “fiancés” but husband and wife.  That single moment of goodness.