31/12/2025
It’s that time of year again — when we all reflect on what we’ve achieved during another spin around the sun.
For me, it’s never just about the last year. It’s about the time that was taken from me… seven long years lost to severe ulcerative colitis.
An autoimmune disease that slowly destroyed my colon.
Countless hospital visits.
More colonoscopies than I can count.
Hours upon hours lying curled up in excruciating pain… and far too many spent sitting on toilets, praying for relief.
That chapter of my life was hell — and I’m grateful it’s now only a reflection, not my reality.
The embarrassment of uncontrollably soiling yourself.
Walking the dog while mentally mapping out places you could run to if you didn’t make it home.
Feeling like you’re letting everyone down — unable to be the dad, the partner, the man you desperately wanted to be.
Watching your loved ones worry while you silently felt like a burden.
I don’t dwell on that past life very often, but I allow myself to remember it — because it reminds me just how far I’ve come.
Five whole years with a stoma.
Five years of minimal symptoms.
Five years of getting my life back.
My stoma didn’t take something from me — it gave me everything back.
It gave me normality.
It gave me strength.
It helped shape me into the man I am today.
And for that, I will always be grateful. ❤️