Real Stories. Real Answers. Navigating Life With IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be difficult to recognize, diagnose, and manage—and many patients spend years searching for answers.
This campaign brings together real patient stories and expert perspectives to help you better understand IBD, from early symptoms to diagnosis, treatment options, and living well with the condition.
Whether you’re just starting to notice symptoms or looking for new options, these stories and resources are designed to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered to take the next step.
Recognizing IBD: Understanding Symptoms and Getting Answers
For many people, the journey with IBD begins with symptoms that are easy to dismiss or difficult to talk about. Delays in recognizing these signs can lead to frustration, uncertainty, and prolonged discomfort.
Here, you’ll hear from a patient and expert about the early signs of IBD, what to watch for, and why paying attention to your symptoms matters. These stories highlight the importance of trusting your body and seeking answers sooner.
IBD Demystified: Know the Symtoms To Watch For
In this episode of Life With Leaks, we sit down with Dr. Maria Roell, who breaks down what inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is and how it can show up in everyday life.
She explains the symptoms people often overlook and when it’s time to seek care. Whether you’re newly experiencing symptoms or navigating a recent diagnosis, this episode is a great primer for understanding symptoms, knowing what to look for, and how to get help.
Gerri's Story: From "Pain Like Lava" To Remission. Living Fully With Crohn's Disease
In this moving patient story, we speak with Gerri, a Crohn’s patient about her journey from devilitating digestive symptoms to complete remission. She shares what it was like to live in NYC while navigating relentless urgency, severe abdominal pain, and the constant need to locate the nearest restroom. Hear how she finally found releif throught treatment, and her advice to anyone struggling with unexplained GI symptoms.
Watch Gerri's Story
From Diagnosis to Remission. Navigating Living With IBD
Getting a diagnosis is a major turning point—but it’s only the beginning. Many patients face challenges as they learn to manage symptoms, explore treatments, and adjust to life with IBD.
This section focuses on what happens after diagnosis, including the path to remission, ongoing symptom management, and the emotional realities of living with a chronic condition. You’ll hear honest perspectives on what works, what doesn’t, and how patients find stability over time.
Understanding IBD: From Diagnosis to Remission...What You Need To Know - Coming Soon! Episode launches March 30th!
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Ryan O’Leary, advanced fellow in inflammatory bowel disease, for a breakdown on what sets Croh’s disease and ulcerative colitis apart from other digestive conditions, the complexity of inflammation, the role of the immune system and how IBD can impact far more than the gut, including joints, skin, eyes and mental health. You’ll also hear about treatment goals, the expanding range of medications available, and why personalized treatment plans are essential.
Jonathan's Story: No One Believed Me. One Man's Fight for a Crohn's Diagnosis and recovery. - Coming soon! Episode launches March 30th
In this gripping episode of Life Without Leaks, we speak with John, a law enforcement officer, father of two and competitive strongman, about his harrowing journey to a Crohn’s disease diagnosis. John opens up about the physical toll, temporary otomy, slow recovery and the psychological impact of medical trauma. He shares how therapy, strength training and community helped him reclaim his identity and rebuild confidence.
Watch John's Story
Exploring New Options: Treatment Advances and Hope for the Future
IBD treatment is evolving, and patients today have more options than ever before. But navigating those options—and advocating for the right care—can still feel overwhelming.
In this section, patients and experts discuss emerging treatments, the importance of speaking up about your needs, and the hope that comes with ongoing innovation. These stories are a reminder that better outcomes are possible—and that patients play a key role in shaping their care.
IBD Breakthroughs: Why No One Should Accept A "New Normal" - Coming Soon! Episode Launches April 6th!
In this powerful episode of Life Without Leaks, we welcome world-renowned IBD expert Dr. Marla Dubinsky of Mount Sinai to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis treatment. Learn why early diagnosis and timely use of advanced therapies can dramatically change a patient’s long-term trajectory, and why too many people are still suffering unnecessarily.
Olivia's Story: Severe Ulcerative Colitis at 26 - Olivia's Fight For Remission - Coming Soon! Episode Launches April 6th!
In this deeply personal episode of Life Without Leaks, we speak with Olivia about her life-altering battle with severe ulcerative colitis.
Olivia shares candid advice about self-advocacy, overcoming embarrassment, finding the right care team and preparing for the unexpected. Her message is powerful: don’t lose hope. Effective treatments exist, community matters and you deserve to fight for your health — and your life.
Watch Olivia's Story
Download Free IBD TOols To Help!
Click the images below to download our free IBD tools and guides!
This educational resource was made possible through the generous support of Eli Lilly and Company, and the Johnson & Johnson Foundation. The National Association for Continence retained full editorial control, and the funder had no role in the development of the content or materials.
Latest Articles
What It Means To Be Diagnosed With IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)
Jenny sat in her doctor’s office, her heart pounding in her chest as she awaited the results of her tests. She had been experiencing persistent
Ask The Doc: What’s The Difference Between IBS And IBD?
Question: What’s the difference between IBS and Crohn’s Disease? Could I have both? Answer: While both of these conditions seem to have similar symptoms, they
Ask The Doc: Is Inflammatory Bowel Disease Curable
Diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)? Learn about treatment options, managing flares, and the possibility of remission. #IBDManagement #LivingWithIBD
