Inflammatory Bowel Disease Day shows 'not every disability is visible'

Jessie Gallay is sharing her experience of living with an Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Credit: ITV Channel TV

A young woman in Jersey is sharing her experience of living with a bowel condition to inspire others to do the same.

19-year-old Jessie Gallay was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis four years ago.

Last year, she underwent surgery which helped her to live a normal life again.

Now, on World Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Awareness Day, Jessie and health professionals in Jersey are urging people to understand that 'not every disability is visible'.

IBD affects more than 400 people in the island. The two main forms are:

  • Crohn's disease which causes inflammation of the digestive system.

  • Ulcerative colitis which causes inflammation and ulceration of the inner lining of the rectum and colon.

Both conditions cause diarrhoea, tiredness and fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, cramping pains and anaemia.

Lesley Pitman, gastroenterology specialist at the General Hospital, is calling for local businesses to join a Crohn’s and Colitis UK campaign, to put signs on disabled toilet doors which state 'Not every disability is visible'.

She says there is little public knowledge about IBD and the impact it can have on a person’s life.

To find out more about the support group for those living with IBD you can email l.pitman@health.gov.je.