Jaderee Ann, 17. I have eosinophilic colitis. I live in the United States of America. I have, acid reflux, nausea, occasional vomiting and constant, uncontrollable diarrhea. It started with just acid reflux and then the diarrhea got worse as time went on and with certain foods I consume. I’ve had several trips to The ER and multiple tests done; CT scans, HIDA scans, ultra sounds, colonoscopy & endoscopy (waiting to hear back on another), allergy testing and several blood draws. I’ve seen 2 surgeons, 3 family doctors, and 1 gastroenterologist. I ended up firing my gastroenterologist due to a conflict in our personalities.

The previous school year I missed a total of 60+ days due to being sick. This current school year, I have missed close to 30 days.  People need to realize that a person with eosinophilic disorders, do not fake being sick and their symptoms can change daily. One day we can seem be perfectly fine and the next be in the hospital. Also patients, can not control what our bodies do. For me, it can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 2 hours to use the restroom.

I try to not let this affect my life. I play 10 musical instruments, I hold the first chair position in my high schools Jazz Band. I am the Drum Major of the Marching Band. I take night class for American Sign Language and getting ready to take my clinicals, to receive my CNA certificate.

Through everything, I have had a lot of people by my side. I have met some amazing and strong people, built great friendships because of it, and I consider myself very fortunate. Some of my other friends are on feeding tubes and have to spend days, weeks, and even months in the hospital.

I’m very blessed to have parents and 2 siblings that are very supportive in my trials.

Yes, it’s been extremely hard on my family and my education. And yes, I have my days where I’m so sick and in pain, that it seems no longer worth trying.. But I want to be positive. I want to be there for others who are going through this, too. I want to be a reason to keep searching for a cure. It won’t be easy. But it’s easier getting through every day knowing there is a hope.