Kristen F., Crohn’s Disease (IBD)
Symptoms:Fatigue, abdominal cramps, blood in stool, loss of appetite, frequent and painful bathroom visits, perianal disease (open wound), mouth sores, joint painTreatments:Multiple medications, surgeries (temporary ostomy, total colectomy and permanent ostomy, Barbie butt surgery or proctectomy)
Kristen was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just 12 years old. For anyone wonderingwhat does Crohn’s disease look like, her story offers a vivid picture. Living with this chronic illness so young meant navigating growing pains and medical challenges simultaneously. She talks about how her world shifted from being a sports-loving, active kid to someone grappling with daily pain, blood in her stool, and emotional isolation. Her story is a heartfelt reminder that chronic illness changes more than your body — it affects how you relate to the world.
Interviewed by: Taylor ScheibEdited by: Katrina Villareal
Throughout her teenage years, Kristen faced mounting symptoms and emotional struggles. By high school, her condition had worsened significantly. She bounced between treatments and doctors, often feeling let down. When she was in college, everything changed during an appointment when a doctor told her she needed anostomy.
With her health deteriorating, Kristen agreed. That surgery, though overwhelming and unknown to her at the time, saved her life. She had no prior education aboutostomy careand struggled initially, but she and her mom figured it out together.
Kristen is honest about themental health toll of chronic illness, includingmedical PTSDand anxiety. She didn’t always advocate for herself, but she learned how to speak up. That shift empowered her. She realized that her voice mattered, especially when navigating multiple surgeries, including atotal colectomythat made her ostomy permanent. While that decision was emotionally heavy, especially after being told it would be temporary, she eventually accepted it as necessary for her well-being.
Instead of letting shame or misinformation define her, Kristen started sharing her story online to educate and empower others. She uses Instagram as a blog,breaking stigmas around ostomy bagsand showing the reality of life with one. She answers common questions about intimacy, product use, and body image. Kristen keeps it real but is always supportive, encouraging others to ask questions and never feel ashamed.
Body positivity plays a huge role in Kristen’s story. She’s chosen to love and appreciate her body for all it has endured. Even with anostomy, she’s traveled the world, held full-time jobs, enjoys paddleboarding and rollerblading, and continues to thrive. She’s all about hope, mental health awareness, and creating inclusive spaces for people withinvisible illnesses. Her message is clear: don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself, embrace your body, and know that even in the hardest moments, you’re not alone.
Watch Kristen’s video to find out more about her story:
This interview has been edited for clarity and length. This is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider to make informed treatment decisions.
The views and opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of The Patient Story.
Share your story, too!
Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*
Comment*
Name
Website
Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.Learn how your comment data is processed.
Originally published on The Patient Story: https://thepatientstory.com/patient-stories/chronic-diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease/crohns-disease/kristen-f/
