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Showing episodes and shows of
Amber Tresca
Shows
About IBD
How Tech is Changing Gastroenterology
Amber and gastroenterologist Dr Neil Parikh discuss technology’s impact on IBD management. Dr Parikh emphasizes the importance of patient diaries and open communication between patients and providers. They also address concerns about data privacy, integrating holistic approaches in patient care, and the potential of wearable technology in gastroenterology. Find Neil D. Parikh, MD at: Web: Connecticut GI LinkedIn: Neil D. Parikh, MD Find The Gut Doctor Podcast at: RSS feed Apple Podcasts Spotify All other podcast apps Find Amber J Tresca at: AboutIBD.com: About IBD Verywell: Verywell Health Facebook: @aboutIBD Twitter: @aboutIBD Pinterest: @aboutibd Instagram: @about_IBD YouTube: @About...
2025-05-06
27 min
The Gut Doctor
IBD with Amber Tresca
In a Gut Doctor first, Dr. Parikh interviews a fellow podcaster- Amber Tresca! Amber is a medical writer, podcast host and blogger. Her platform, AboutIBD, empowers patients living with inflammatory bowel disease as she shares her experiences living with ulcerative colitis and a J-pouch. In this episode, she shares her journey and provides tips for patients living with IBD.
2025-02-18
31 min
About IBD
How to Thrive as a Parent with IBD Featuring Jaime Holland
Amber hands over hosting duties to Jamie Holland, a patient advocate with Crohn's disease. They discuss their personal experiences with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). They focus on Amber's decision to have j-pouch surgery after being diagnosed with dysplasia and the effects it had on her fertility. Jamie asks Amber to share about the emotional and physical challenges of motherhood with IBD, including fatigue and guilt. They also touch on the possibility of passing IBD on to children and the importance of community and support. Concepts discussed on this episode: Xue M, Leibovitzh H, Jingcheng S, et al. Environmental Factors Associated W...
2025-01-28
40 min
About IBD
Navigating Hernia Surgery Featuring Mike Tresca
Amber is joined by her husband, Mike, who recently underwent robotic hernia surgery. In this candid conversation, they explore the entire experience—from the initial discovery of the hernia to the surgery itself and the recovery process that followed. Mike shares his insights on the challenges he faced, including unexpected pain, dietary adjustments, and the importance of having a supportive caregiver. They also discuss the nuances of patient-provider communication and how to navigate the complexities of post-surgery life. Whether you’re considering surgery or simply curious about the process, this episode offers valuable lessons and firsthand experiences that might resonate with...
2025-01-07
1h 22
About IBD
Amber's 2024 in Books
Amber shares some of the books she read over the previous year including biographies, young adult fiction, bestsellers, and romance. Hear about Amber's reading list from 2024, which was truly a mixed bag. The good news is that it contains something for everyone. Plus: learn about how you can read or listen to books for free using your local library — maybe without even leaving your house. Library apps mentioned in this episode: Libby Hoopla Freegal Music Books mentioned in this episode: Leave the World Behind by Rumaan Alam The Giver by Lois Lowry Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley The Woman in...
2024-12-22
24 min
About IBD
"Fine" Dining With Crohn's Disease Featuring Michael Ornelas
What's the difference between ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease? We talk about them like they're two distinct sides of a spectrum, but there are people who don't have a firm place on that continuum. Amber Tresca talks with Michael Ornelas, host of the "Fine" Dining podcast, about his journey with IBD. Michael was first diagnosed with proctitis, then Crohn's disease, and later, maybe, with ulcerative colitis. Michael shares his experiences with symptoms, treatments, and the impact IBD has on life. But it's not all serious! Michael also talks about his comedy podcast, "Fine" Dining, which encompasses the search for mediocrity...
2024-12-10
1h 02
About IBD
The Hosts of Bowel Moments
Alicia and Robin, co-hosts of the "Bowel Moments" podcast, join Amber for a discussion about podcasting in the IBD community. Robin shares her IBD journey, including her diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, the complications that led to an ileal anal anastomosis, the later diagnosis of Crohn's disease, and evebtyak J-pouch surgery. They also talk about the challenges of producing the podcast, the importance of therapy, and keeping up a social media presence. The conversation highlights the emotional and logistical aspects of creating a podcast about IBD. Select episodes of Bowel Moments: Bowel Moments Episode 1: Get to know your co-host Robin and A...
2024-11-12
36 min
Bowel Moments
Meet About IBD Podcast Host- Amber Tresca!
Send us a textThis week we were so excited to have a crossover episode with the host of the About IBD Podcast- Amber Tresca! We turned the tables on Amber and interviewed her about her IBD story! Amber has been living with UC for several years and underwent a 2-step J-Pouch surgery. We talked about her story thus far and how that plus her background in medical writing led her to a career of educating and advocating for the IBD community and how that prompted her to create the About IBD podcast! We discussed her medical...
2024-10-16
51 min
About IBD
Parenting With IBD (With Alison McGauley)
Amber interviews Alison McGauley, a teacher and author of "Kenzie's Little Tree," a children's book about a girl whose mother lives with chronic illness. Alison shares her journey with ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and ankylosing spondylitis, and how her hospitalization impacted her two daughters. She emphasizes the importance of talking about illness with children to help them process their emotions. Alison’s book, set to release in March 2025, aims to provide a narrative for families dealing with chronic illness. Pre-orders are available, with proceeds donated to Crohn's and Colitis Canada and the Arthritis Society. Buy Al...
2024-10-15
34 min
About IBD
Starting College After a Crohn’s Diagnosis
Christina King shares her journey with being diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 2021. She was misdiagnosed with gastritis and hemorrhoids, until her severe symptoms of rectal bleeding and weight loss, plus multiple trips to the emergency department led to a hospitalization. An in-patient colonoscopy finally led to a diagnosis of Crohn's, and she was finally able to get treatment and improve. She was unable to go to school with her high school graduating class, and is now ready to start pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. Christina tells Amber where she went for information in the early days after...
2024-09-17
41 min
About IBD
IBD and Accommodations at Work With Katie Connelly
Amber Tresca and Katie Connelly discuss the challenges and importance of workplace accommodations for individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Katie has been through the process of asking for accommodations with different employers and shares her personal experience, emphasizing the need for understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). She relates her experience and gives advice to both employers and employees on how to manage the accommodation journey. Plus, she gives the resources that she found most helpful to help her learn about her rights as an employee. Find Katie Connelly at: Spotify: Katie Connelly Web...
2024-07-30
51 min
About IBD
Connecting to Cure Crohn's and Colitis With Stacy Dylan
Amber is joined by Stacy Dylan, co-founder and executive director of Connecting to Cure Crohn's and Colitis (CtoC). CtoC is a patient advocacy group focused on addressing unmet needs in the IBD community. Stacy founded CtoC to help other families after her son was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. CtoC offers support groups, mentorship programs, and gut-friendly workouts. Stacy offers advice to parents of children with IBD, encouraging them to take things one step at a time and not be overwhelmed by information from the internet. Follow Connecting to Cure: Web: https://www.connectingtocure.org Twitter: @connecttocure...
2024-07-09
53 min
About IBD
"Boo Can't Poo!" With Iris Wang, MD
Dr Iris Wang, assistant professor in the division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Associate Program Director of the GI fellowship at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota and Amber Tresca discuss the stigma surrounding gut health and poop. Dr Wang shares the experience of writing a children's book focused on preventing and managing constipation titled "Boo Can't Poo!" They also discuss the challenges of publishing a book on gut health and the potential benefits of talking about poop and toileting, emphasizing the importance of open communication and personalized treatment. Listen to learn about where you can get "Boo Can't...
2024-06-04
32 min
About IBD
The GEM Project With Chantel Wicks
What is being done to help prevent inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the next generation? The Genetic, Environmental, Microbial (GEM) Project is a research study from Crohn's and Colitis Canada (CCC) focused on finding possible causes for Crohn’s disease by following healthy people who are at a higher risk for developing the disease. To talk about GEM, Amber interviews CCC volunteer Chantel Wicks. Chantel is the chapter president for the Durham Region in Ontario and the Chair of their Gutsy Walk, which is a fundraiser and event that takes place every year in the first weekend of June. Le...
2024-05-14
42 min
About IBD
The Harms of Copay Accumulators
Did you notice that suddenly one year you started paying more for your healthcare? Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are sometimes treated with medications that are expensive. Manufacturers create programs to help patients afford these drugs. In the beginning, these payments from assistance programs counted toward a yearly health insurance deductible. Then, suddenly: they stopped counting. Overnight, patients found themselves responsible for more costs, while insurance carriers received what amounts to double payments. A 2023 court ruling says that this practice should be reversed again, but it's not happening. Amber McCown tells her story of how a copay accumulator program took...
2024-04-30
35 min
About IBD
Amber's Year in Books 2023
What did you read over the past year? If you made a reading goal: did you hit it? The books I read in 2023 included biographies, fantasy, fiction, and romance. Plus, I had several authors who live with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis on the show this year, so I read their books as well. Hear more about some of the books I enjoyed in 2023, how you can hear more from authors with IBD, and ways that you can hit those reading goals this year. IBD Author Episodes: The Plant-Based Crohn’s and Colitis Cookbook – About IBD Podcast Episode...
2024-01-30
25 min
About IBD
Having a Screening Colonoscopy
Colon cancer is being diagnosed more frequently in younger people. It’s now recommended that most people get a screening colonoscopy at the age of 45. For people who have a family history of colon cancer, the first screening should be when they are 10 years younger than the family member was when they were diagnosed. My guest is my husband, Michael Tresca, who recently had a screening colonoscopy after turning 50. He details his experiences in using a newer prep and how he managed the process. If there is a person in your life that is due for their screening, I hope you’ll...
2023-09-26
39 min
About IBD
Managing IBD Diet and Lifestyle With Clemmie Oliver
Diet does matter in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Not only in how it affects the digestive system, but also in overall health. Adults with IBD have greater incidences of heart disease, lung disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, kidney disease, liver disease, and ulcers than do people without IBD. For those reasons and more: thinking about diet and how it affects all these other body systems, as well as the IBD, is important. To discuss how diet relates to IBD, Amber talks to Clemmie Oliver, IBD Specialist Registered Associate Nutritionist and Nutritional Therapist (MSc, ANutr, Dip ION, mBANT, CNHC). Clemmie shares her per...
2023-09-12
51 min
About IBD
Where to Invest Money: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects people from all ethnic and cultural groups. In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds. One of the barriers to addressing disparities is money. It's an unfortunate fact that the healthcare system in the United States is intertwined with money. In some cases, access to care and other equity issues might be solved by putting some funding towards the problems. That's why I asked my guests a really broad question: If you received grant money, where would you allocate it in order to...
2023-08-08
21 min
About IBD
We Have to Invest in the Health Wealth of Our Nation With Brooke Abbott: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Healthcare is political. That's why it's important to push legislators to ensure care is available and accessible to all patients, regardless of their socioeconomic status. Brooke Abbott, of the Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles and co-founder of IBDMoms helps illustrate the aspects of public policy that are important in achieving equity in healthcare. In this discussion you'll learn how lack of access to educational opportunities affects the healthcare space, how some provisions in the Affordable Care Act help reduce disparities, and why access to technology is an important part of healthcare. Find Brooke Abbott on her blog, Facebook...
2023-08-01
43 min
About IBD
I Wanted People to Know That They're Not Alone With Fasika Shimeles Teferra, MD: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects people from all ethnic and cultural groups. In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds. IBD is still considered rare in some parts of the world, but incidence is increasing. Fasika Shimeles Teferra, MD of Ethiopia describes her journey to a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease. Being a medical doctor, she has been able to make connections in order to help other IBD patients in her country. Patients face stigma, less than optimal care, and a lack of educational resources for themselves and th...
2023-07-25
29 min
About IBD
I'm Letting You In With Cedric Pulliam, PhD: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects people from all ethnic and cultural groups. In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds. What is it like to not have anyone on your medical team that looks like you or understands your concerns? The diversity of the human experience is often not reflected in the healthcare system. In fact, there's little research into some areas of IBD, including the experience of LGBTQIA+ patients. Dr Cedric Pulliam, Senior Public Health Advisor at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, had...
2023-07-11
40 min
About IBD
I Want Someone Who's Going to Understand Where I'm Coming From With Selvi Vasudevan, MD: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects people from all ethnic and cultural groups. In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds. Nutrition is a major component of managing digestive disease. Yet people living with Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or indeterminate colitis may not be offered access to help managing their diet. Dr Selvi Vasudevan, founder of Dr Selvi's Keys to Ease Crohn's, discusses her Crohn's disease journey and how it led her to pursue the role diet and nutrition play in wellness as well as the cultural...
2023-07-04
33 min
About IBD
You Have to Genuinely and Authentically Connect With Leaders in This Space With Melodie Narain-Blackwell: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects people from all ethnic and cultural groups. In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds. Why do women of color encounter so many barriers when accessing care? Where are the spaces for black and brown patients to share their knowledge, experiences, and support around Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and other immune-mediated and autoimmune conditions? Melodie Narain-Blackwell, founder of Color of Crohn's and Chronic Illness, discusses her Crohn's disease journey and how it led her to become a voice for the IBD...
2023-06-27
35 min
About IBD
These Disparities Have Been Going on for a Very Long Time With Dr Aline Charabaty: Healthcare Disparities in IBD
In this limited series, we'll explore how inequalities in the healthcare system affect people from diverse backgrounds who live with IBD. Why is there a lack of people of diverse backgrounds who live with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis represented in clinical trials? Why are there so many barriers for people of color in accessing IBD care? Dr Aline Charabaty, Director of the IBD Center at Johns Hopkins Sibley Memorial Hospital and founder of Monday Night IBD on Twitter discusses the scope of inequalities in research and access to care in IBD. What's more: she...
2023-06-20
41 min
About IBD
Yoga for IBD With Desiree Schmidt
Desiree Schmidt, a 500-hour yoga instructor and owner of a personal training business, shares her passion for helping people with chronic illnesses, which is inspired by her own experience with Crohn's disease. She discusses how yoga has been key in her journey, both physically and mentally. Amber and Desiree discuss the benefits of different yoga forms and how to choose the right practice based on whether one is in a flare-up or in remission. Desiree points out how it is important to modify poses when living with a health condition, including IBD, to ensure comfort and safety...
2023-05-23
38 min
About IBD
I Pooped My Pants With April Michelle Harris
When is the last time you pooped your pants? Amber speaks with April Michelle Harris, who lives with ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), for over 13 years. April shares her journey, from her initial diagnosis to her struggles with depression and anxiety, and how she has managed to build a fulfilling life despite the many challenges that come with living with a chronic illness. We also dive into April's new book "I Pooped My Pants", where she shares her story and those of 20 other IBD warriors who have bravely shared their experiences with living...
2023-04-25
41 min
About IBD
Amber's Year in Books 2022
What did you read over the past year? If you made a reading goal: did you hit it? The books I read this year ranged from self-help to true crime to science fiction. Hear more about some of the books I enjoyed in 2022 (and in the year after I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis) and if you’ll want to pick them up for yourself. Creativity: A Short and Cheerful Guide The Comfort Book Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood It’s Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood (Adapted for Youn...
2022-12-26
25 min
That's So Chronic
Amber Tresca & Ulcerative Colitis
Welcome back to That’s So Chronic! Today I was able to sit down with Amber Tresca from the AboutIBD podcast to talk about her diagnosis of ulcerative colitis. In this episode Amber talks us through her diagnosis of UC, the effects not having insurance had on her level of care, the decision to go through with J-pouch surgery, why she does the work that she does, and some excellent advice for anyone out there who has just been diagnosed with a chronic illness. If you want more of Amber (don’t bla...
2022-08-08
45 min
About IBD
Cannabis and IBD
There are significant unmet needs for IBD patients that include pain control, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and depression. Some patients turn to medical cannabis for these symptoms. But is that a good idea, does it work, and what should patients and their doctors know about medical cannabis? To answer these questions and more, Amber talks to cannabis and IBD expert Dr Jami Kinnucan, who is a Senior Associate Consultant in the Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. Get lots more information and a transcript at https://bit.ly/AIBD118 Find...
2022-06-06
48 min
About IBD
How to Be Happy & Healthy With IBD: Reducing the Day-to-Day Burden
Whether in remission or not, the day-to-day of life with IBD can be challenging. Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, even when feeling well, might mean making lifestyle changes, going to doctor’s appointments, and taking medications. Many people are diagnosed young, at a time when their friends aren’t going through anything similar. To understand how people might deal effectively with these changes, Amber talks with Dr Sandra Quezada, a gastroenterologist who specializes in IBD at the University of Maryland Medical Center and Varada Srivastava, a Crohn’s disease patient and biotechnology major who is also a 2022 Cr...
2022-05-02
35 min
About IBD
Common Misconceptions About IBD
Myths and misconceptions about IBD are common. Even amongst patients, there’s things that take time and education to understand because the things that swirl around in the public consciousness are not always true. To help understand why we can’t get rid of some of these common misconceptions, Amber Tresca is joined by gastroenterologist and IBDologist Siobhan Proksell, MD, and ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patient advocate Molly Dunham-Friel, MPH of Better Bellies By Molly. Concepts discussed on this episode include: IBD Parenthood Project How Gut-Directed Hypnosis Helps IBS, IBD and Other GI Disord...
2022-04-18
39 min
Damn she is STRONG
34. Learn More About Life with ULCERATIVE COLITIS and CROHNS DISEASE because it is IBD AWARENESS WEEK with Amber Tresca
IBD AWARENESS WEEK is this week and as some of you may know I am an IBD Warrior myself. I live with a j-pouch now and have ulcerative colitis. I previously had an ostomy bag and on today's episode I have a conversation with the host of the About IBD podcast her name is Amber Tresca and she has a similar story to mine a lot of ways. She does a lot to inform others about IBD and what it is like to live with it. Amber is an IBD patient (diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 1989) who h...
2021-12-03
58 min
4NPs Podcast
4NPs Interview Amber Tresca, Host of About IBD
In Episode 9 of the 4NPs Podcast, we welcome Amber Tresca — IBD expert, medical writer, public speaker, patient advocate, and host of the About IBD podcast — to share her story as an Ulcerative Colitis patient, and provide us, as nurses and providers, insights on what to look for, what to listen for, standard course of care and how to best support and advocate for patients with IBD.
2021-11-02
50 min
Being Fearless with Jackie Robbins
Amber Tresca on About IBD
This week I have a conversation with Amber Tresca. Amber is an IBD patient (diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 1989) who has been writing and editing patient-facing content for the IBD community since 2000 both for major online outlets and on her own site, AboutIBD.com. After 10 years of active disease, medical therapy failed and she underwent the 2 step j-pouch surgery (removal of the large intestine and creation of an internal pouch from the last part of the small intestine). In 2017, she began the About IBD Podcast to educate people living with IBD about their disease and to bring awareness to...
2021-07-21
1h 18
About IBD
Healthcare Disparities in IBD
Hey, it's Amber. I want to tell you about my limited podcast series, Healthcare Disparities in IBD. IBD used to be thought of as a Western disease. Something that happened in developed countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia. IBD was also thought to mainly affect White people and people of Jewish heritage. However, these demographics are changing, and IBD is now considered a global disease.[1] A harmful and pervasive misconception is that IBD does not affect people of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Minority patients are sometimes told that they can't...
2021-04-05
01 min
About IBD
Amber's Reflections on 2020
What does it mean to act with intention? The pandemic altered the course of our year and divorced us from our intentions. However, there were learnings that we can build on to create a better, more inclusive, and informed IBD community. In this mini-episode, I share my thoughts on how the year affected me and how I plan to move forward in 2021 by getting back to my intentions. Find Amber J Tresca at AboutIBD.com, Verywell, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Credits: Mix and sound design is by Mac Cooney. Theme music, "IBD Dance Party,” is...
2020-12-30
06 min
About IBD
How Would You Feel if I Got COVID?
How often do you check in with your friends and family about how they're doing during the pandemic? Families have had to make difficult choices regarding school, playdates, and extracurricular activities. We are all concerned about how our kids are faring during the pandemic. But are we asking them about their worries and concerns as often as we should? Amber sits down with her 10-year-old daughter to talk about hybrid school, concerns about getting sick with COVID, what kids are missing right now, and what they want to do when the pandemic is over. Concepts discussed in...
2020-11-23
21 min
About IBD
Am I Forgiven?
Do you worry that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) will get in the way of finding a romantic partner? Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can make dating challenging but they can also simplify it. It becomes clear pretty quickly if a potential partner is going to struggle to cope with chronic illness. This episode focuses on communication, as Amber and her husband, Mike, discuss how he reacted to his first introduction to ulcerative colitis and why it's important to check in with your partner before discussing IBD outside of the relationship. After more than 20 years, they finally put an incident...
2020-11-16
33 min
About IBD
Promo: Crohn's Veteran
I'm taking some time off from producing new episodes of About IBD. But I don't want to leave you without great Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis content for your ears. That's why I'm sharing a new IBD podcast with you, called Crohn's Veteran. You can find Crohn's Veteran in any podcast app as well as on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter. The Crohn's Veteran hosts are Jordan McConnell, CJ Cabrera, and Renika Wood, who give their perspective on life with IBD and interview guests from the IBD community. Subscribe to Crohn's Veteran in your favorite podcast app, including Apple...
2020-09-07
01 min
About IBD
Sending Chronically Ill Kids to School, Featuring Dr Brad Jerson
Kids with chronic illness face special issues when going back to school because they’re at risk of their accommodations becoming eroded. In particular, children who live with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, might be in danger of not being granted appropriate bathroom access. I speak with Dr Brad Jerson, a Pediatric Psychologist in the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Connecticut Children’s and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. We discuss the worrying behaviors that parents should watch out for in their kids and how we can help k...
2020-08-17
25 min
About IBD
Back to School in a Pandemic With Dr Brad Jerson
Back to school will be quite different for families across the United States and the world this year. There aren’t many answers to be had to our questions, yet we must make decisions with the best information that we have at this time. I speak with Dr Brad Jerson, a Pediatric Psychologist in the Division of Digestive Diseases, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Connecticut Children’s and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine about how we can prepare our kids, and ourselves, for the school year. We discuss the behaviors we can mode...
2020-08-10
27 min
About IBD
About IBD Preview - Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
While everyone who lives with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, indeterminate colitis), or IBD, has their own story, there are major themes. Finding someone whose story is similar to yours is both validating and empowering. This is why Amber Tresca, who lives with ulcerative colitis and a j-pouch, developed the About IBD Podcast. IBD is not only isolating but it also affects every aspect of the lives of those who live with these diseases. It touches relationships, finances, and careers. On About IBD, Amber talks to caregivers and people living with IBD to get their stories so that t...
2020-08-09
01 min
About IBD
The Footprints Program with Arielle Radin of Gali Health
What’s in your microbiome and how does it interact with your IBD? The bacteria that’s in the gut of someone that lives with IBD is different from the bacteria in the the gut of someone that doesn’t have IBD. This is a major area of study because it may help researchers not only in developing new treatments but also in better understanding IBD. That’s why I asked Arielle Radin, Director of Clinical Research for Gali Health, to talk to me about the Footprints Program. The Footprints Program is an ambitious research project that is going to seque...
2020-07-27
40 min
The Ostomy Guy's Podcast
Amber Tresca(47) - Ulcerative Colitis '89 and a J-Pouch '99.
Amber Tresca(47) - Ulcerative Colitis '89 and a J-Pouch '99. Amber realized early that sharing her story helped others. She is the host of the ABOUT IBD podcast, a blogger, and a writer about all things IBD. At the end of the day, she's a mom and wife, battling like the rest of us.
2020-07-07
1h 02
About IBD
The Sherman Prize With Dr Dermot McGovern
The Sherman Prize is an award created by Bruce and Cynthia Sherman to recognize those who are making great contributions to the field of research and care in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The Sherman family has been touched by IBD and their goal is to create a ripple effect that spreads awareness, fosters innovation, and provides inspiration in the hope that in the future, other families won’t have to contend with IBD in the way that theirs has. Dr Dermot McGovern, Professor of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California in Los An...
2020-07-03
23 min
About IBD
Find Those Things That Make You Happy
Being diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) can upend your entire life. Then being diagnosed with a rare liver disease? It could truly leave you feeling hopeless. But that’s not what happened to Jenna Ziegler of The Comical Colon. Not long after her ulcerative colitis diagnosis, her doctor was concerned about her liver test levels. With more testing and a lot of patient empowerment, Jenna now has a presumed diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis, or PSC. She tells how she has fought to get the tests she needed to understand her level of risk...
2020-06-29
31 min
About IBD
You've Got to Find the Humor in Things
Do you have a sense of humor about your IBD? Jenna Ziegler of The Comical Colon found that keeping her sense of humor has helped her through the challenges she faced after being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in college. After fighting her way back to health after severe flare-ups and carving out the life she wanted for herself, Jenna received another stunning diagnosis: a rare liver condition called primary sclerosing cholangitis, or PSC. Over the years she has done the hard work to learn how to be an empowered patient and she shares her 5 tips on how you can...
2020-06-22
28 min
About IBD
I Had Contemplated Keeping It a Secret
What has been your experience with ostomy surgery? If you know someone who lives with an ileostomy or a colostomy, you'll likely get your impression about having a stoma from them. But what if that person struggles to accept their stoma? When Amber Wallace Ogle of The Ostomy Diaries was faced with ileostomy surgery to treat her Crohn's disease, she was reminded of the negative experiences of her family members who lived with an ostomy. However, it didn't take long after her surgery before she was embracing life again and working to show others that life with an ostomy...
2020-06-01
31 min
About IBD
I'm Not Doing This By Myself
How would you answer these questions about your inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)? What is the best part of having IBD? What is the hardest part of your day? What is your least favorite treatment? If you could choose one dance for your doctor, what would it be and why? What is one thing you wish people knew about your condition? Amber answers these questions, posed by Shawntel Bethea of Crohn's & Stuff, for fun and also to get the conversation started about how Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis affect our lives. Find Shawntel Bethea of Cr...
2020-05-04
23 min
About IBD
What It's Like to Have IBD and COVID-19
People living with IBD who have suppressed immune systems because of medication are understandably concerned about their risks surrounding the novel coronavirus and COVID-19. Jamie Horrigan, a medical student and founder of "Sweetened By Nature," lives with Crohn’s disease and gastroparesis and was diagnosed with COVID-19. She describes her experiences with symptoms, diagnosis, isolation, and recovery. She also gives some insight on why a common complication of coronaviruses, called a cytokine storm, may be an important factor of COVID-19 for people with IBD. Concepts discussed on this episode: Coronavirus (COVID-19) testing: What you should know (UC...
2020-04-13
31 min
About IBD
I Really Don't Think About My Ostomy Anymore
Living with a permanent ileostomy as a result of Crohn’s disease hasn’t stopped Ryan Stevens from participating in the sport he loves. He worked his way back from crushing IBD flare-ups and multiple surgeries in order to train for the ultimate triathlon: the IRONMAN. In this second part of Ryan's story, hear what happened to him while on the bike route, why the ostomy may actually provide an advantage, and Amber’s unfiltered thoughts on the competitiveness of the triathlon community. Find Ryan Stevens of IBD Swimming & Me at Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Find Ambe...
2019-10-29
29 min
About IBD
This Is Still Better Than Surgery
A diagnosis of Crohn’s disease and an ileostomy hasn’t stopped Ryan Stevens from competing in triathlon races. He swam through high school and college and was sidelined by Crohn’s just after falling in love with triathlon. He’s worked his way back twice from devastating flare-ups to get back to swim, bike, run, and now to the ultimate race: the IRONMAN. Come with us as we relive the IRONMAN Triathlon in Madison, Wisconsin and discuss how Ryan prepared and competed while living with IBD and a permanent ostomy. Find Ryan Stevens of IBD Swimming & Me, at:
2019-10-22
28 min
About IBD
You Have to Take Care of Yourself
Being diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) at any time or at any age is challenging. However, the pre-biologic era was especially difficult because of the lack of treatment options and the absence of some of the legal protections that are in place today. Danielle O’Connor tells her story of being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at a young age and how she managed her career as a special education teacher through many hospitalizations and surgeries. Concepts discussed in this episode: Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA): https://www.verywellfamily.com/understanding-family-medical-leave-act-4628330 Affordable Care Act (ACA): https://ww...
2019-10-08
33 min
About IBD
I Would Have Missed the Window for a Child
People with IBD are often faced with unexpected challenges that are outside of those being experienced by their peer group. Jen Mcgregor of Crohnie Clothing found herself grappling with questions about her fertility while still in her early 20s. She had to act quickly in order to preserve her ability to have a biological child. Jen tells her personal story of working through the emotional, physical, financial, and even legal aspects of planning for her future fertility. Find Jen Mcgregor of Crohnie Clothing at: Blog: https://crohnieclothing.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHJBsqBLOFD0...
2019-09-24
24 min
About IBD
He Would Do the Same for Me
Caregivers play an important role in the disease journey. For Rebecca Kaplan, whose husband, Dan, lives with Crohn’s disease, caregiving has been a large part of her life at times. When she went looking for support for herself as a caregiver, what she found was a need for more resources. She went on to not only create a support space for caregivers but also to take a leadership role in the inflammatory bowel disease community that benefits everyone who is touched by these diseases. For more information: Sitz Bath Live Vaccines (Measles) Ally Bai...
2019-09-10
32 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Connecting the Numbers to a Story
In the final episode of my Summer of Activism Series, I asked Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles to help us better understand Congressional Briefings. During Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week, she spoke at a briefing about IBD and minority health. It was an opportunity to bring awareness to this little-discussed factor of IBD and it presented some challenges and opportunities. Learn more about Congressional Briefings, how they are an important tool for advocacy groups, and how they have an impact on public policy. See video of the Congressional Briefing on IBD & Population Health: https://www.facebook.com...
2019-08-27
16 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: It's Now or Never
If you have the chance to speak on behalf of the inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) community: would you take it? At first, volunteer and Crohn’s disease advocate Keri Flaccomio wondered if she had a right to attend a day on the hill event with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and lobby in Washington DC on behalf of the IBD community. Her experiences while she was on the hill helped her to understand that not only did she have the right, but she also had a responsibility to tell her story — and the stories of others living with IBD. Learn...
2019-08-19
28 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Have Your Voice Heard on the Hill
The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) can make people feel powerless and isolated. Participating in day on the Hill events in Washington DC with patient advocacy groups are one way to take back control and have your voice heard by those who can help affect change. Hear from Jaime Holland of Pretty Rotten Guts, who describes her experiences in lobbying on Capital Hill including why it’s important to her, how she navigates the day with mobility issues, and why the experience is empowering. Download your FREE copy of the new single, "IBD Dance Party," by signing up fo...
2019-08-13
17 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Attending Day on the Hill
How does an IBD patient attend Day on the Hill events and meet with the offices of congressional representatives in Washington DC? What is it like to go to these events? In this episode I describe how I got involved in hill day meetings, why I do it, and what the process is like to attend. I also offer you my tips on how to make the best of the time spent in the capital in order to make the biggest impact on the people who can affect change in the lives of IBD patients. How to Get Involved: Crohn’s an...
2019-07-30
16 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Getting Kids Involved in Activism
How young is "too young" to get kids involved in activism? Gastroenterologist and activist Dr Meenakshi Bewtra started her kids on their activism journey at birth and continues by bringing them to marches, voter registration events, and postcard writing parties. Dr Bewtra shares her tips on how you can involve your kids in activism, why you should, and how it might make your life as a parent — and activist — a bit easier. Find Meenakshi Bewtra, MD, MPH at: Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrsMeena Penn Medicine: https://www.pennmedicine.org/providers/profile/meenakshi-bewtra Find Amber J Tresca of Abou...
2019-07-23
25 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Attending a Town Hall
Working with our local elected officials is important to having our voices heard. But attending local town hall meetings held by state or federal congressional representatives is daunting, especially if you’ve never done it before. Shawntel Bethea of Chronically Strong describes her journey from sending an email to asking for support from her Congresswoman at a meeting in her district. She gives her tips on how you can make an impact in your community for people living with IBD. Find Shawntel Bethea of Chronically Strong, at: Blog: https://chronicallystrong.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ch...
2019-07-16
13 min
About IBD
Summer of Activism: Going to Medical Meetings
For this first episode of my limited series, Summer of Activism, I’m answering a question that I hear regularly: how it is that I go to medical meetings such as Digestive Disease Week, Advances in IBD, or Crohn’s and Colitis Congress. I give you the answer as well as tips on how patients, bloggers, podcasters, and vloggers can work towards attending these, and other, scientific meetings. Here’s a spoiler: it takes dedication to improving the lives of people with IBD, commitment to doing the work consistently, and some professional networking. Find Amber J Tresca at: Verywell: https://www.ver...
2019-07-09
09 min
About IBD
Where Do We Go From Here?
What’s new in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatments and what’s next on the horizon? Dr Peter Higgins, a gastroenterologist, IBD specialist, and researcher at the University of Michigan discusses what’s new in IBD from the Crohn’s and Colitis Congress meeting in 2019. We talk fecal transplants, healing strictures in the intestines, and the feasibility of custom ostomy products. It’s a conversation about cutting edge research on Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis mixed with the practicality of using these treatments in the real world. Concepts and ideas discussed: Fecal transplants: https://www.verywellhealth.com/fecal-bacteri...
2019-06-24
25 min
About IBD
Princesses Poop Too
Does having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) make you feel like a princess? Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are not only painful, serious conditions, but they also carry stigma which leads to patients feeling isolated. Sophia Vicari, the founder of The Princess Promise, is creating a community that challenges the perception society has about digestive disease. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis while in college, it didn’t take long before Sophia decided she needed to work to help others in the IBD community become more comfortable talking about poop. Hear Sophia’s disease journey, what it was like for her to be Mis...
2019-06-11
38 min
About IBD
We Still Don't Know What Happened
Every person that lives with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in the United States knows the challenges of dealing with health insurance companies. Denials of service are common, particularly when diagnostic tests are ordered or when a new drug is prescribed. A change in insurance carrier, which can come after a life event (such as getting married or changing jobs) or at the start of the calendar year is another time when patients may find themselves in the appeal process in order to get needed tests or medication. For Jaime Holland, a life change, an insurance change, a ca...
2019-05-21
37 min
About IBD
I Just Said Yes
Living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis may have a significant affect on intimate relationships. The reasons for this are as individual as we are but can include pain, fatigue, medication side effects, and problems with body image. Kait Scalisi, an NYC-based sex educator who founded Passion by Kait, has devoted her professional life to helping women and couples learn to reconnect with themselves and their partner in order to enhance intimacy and reconnect with pleasure. Kait lives with Crohn’s disease and ankylosing spondylitis, and therefore has a deep understanding of how chronic conditions can affect intimate relationships (both...
2019-05-07
35 min
About IBD
You Have to Do What’s Best For You
Many young people who are undergoing ileostomy surgery to treat Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis have never met another younger person with an ostomy. Gaylyn Henderson, founder of Gutless and Glamorous, wants to make sure that people living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) don’t experience the uncertainty and stigma that she encountered before her ostomy surgery. In between running a successful foundation and a support group for people with chronic illness, Gaylyn has also become a spokeswoman for people with an ostomy, proving that her ileostomy is not a barrier to success. Concepts and ideas discussed on this episo...
2019-04-23
45 min
About IBD
What Are People Going to Think?
People who live with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis experience stigma because of their inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The taboo topic of bowel disease can permeate all aspects of a person’s life, especially when there are cultural influences also at play.Tina Aswani Omprakash, who lives with Crohn's disease and a permanent ileostomy, shares her story of personal empowerment and how she is working to help other people with IBD live their lives with confidence. Tina describes how IBD has profoundly affected her family as well as why she decided to become an outspoken advocate for the IBD...
2019-04-09
33 min
About IBD
Your Body Is Depending on You to Be Assertive
It’s common for people with IBD to look online for patients who have a similar disease journey to their own. For men, however, there are fewer places to find such a peer because there are not as many men in the IBD influencer space as there are women. That’s where Rasheed Clarke, author of Three Tablets Twice Daily, blogger, and ulcerative colitis and j-pouch patient steps in. Hear Rasheed contrast how his running career is different before and after j-pouch surgery, his thoughts on being one of the few male voices in the online IBD community, how we ca...
2019-03-12
27 min
About IBD
I Felt a Lot of Guilt
What compels a person to share their personal journey with IBD? For Rasheed Clarke, author of Three Tablets Twice Daily, his writing began as a way to keep track of everything for himself and his healthcare team. It quickly turned into a tool that he used to show those around him the stark realities of a life with IBD: bloody diarrhea and all. His coworkers and friends were shocked to learn how much he was coping with every day but not everyone close to him approved of his honesty. On this episode of About IBD, Rasheed digs into the...
2019-02-26
23 min
About IBD
You Are Only 1% Human With Dr Sarina Pasricha
What is the microbiome, how might it be connected to IBD and other conditions, and how can it affect health when it's pushed out of balance? Dr Sarina Pasricha of the Christiana Care Health System gives me the scoop on how the microbiome is created when we are young and how it changes with our activities and diet, as well as why we should not try fecal transplants at home, and how a little bit of dirt is good for our kids. Concepts and ideas discussed in this episode: Christiana Care Health System 2nd Annual GI Symposium: https://events.christianacare.org...
2019-02-12
34 min
About IBD
It’s a Pain I Invite Into My Life
A diagnosis of IBD can take away the thing that you feel defines you as a person. This is how it felt for Megan Starshak of The Great Bowel Movement, who describes how her ulcerative colitis diagnosis at age 18 stole her passion for running. The process of losing and then regaining her identity as a runner fueled her desire to help people live well with a diagnosis of IBD. Her foundation seeks to educate those outside the IBD community through the use of a simple conversation prompt: Ask Me About My IBD. Find The Great Bowel Movement at...
2019-01-28
24 min
About IBD
How to Apply Critical Thinking to IBD Research
The internet runs on advertising, which means that editors and writers are often tasked with getting the most possible eyeballs on their story. That can mean that there’s pressure to write a controversial or sensational headline to get those clicks. In this episode, I invite experienced medical writer and university instructor, Shereen Lehman, to weigh in and tell you how to figure out if a story about IBD is good reporting — or if it’s crap. Articles on critical thinking and research: Should IBD Patients Look To Mouse Studies For Hope?: http://aboutibd.com/2015/02/27/should-ibd-patients-look-to-mouse-studies-for-hope/ 5 Keys to Uncovering Poor IBD Infor...
2019-01-15
30 min
About IBD
Wrapping Up About IBD for 2018
I wanted to let you know what’s happening in the About IBD world and how you can stay in touch and keep up with all the great progress that’s happening! Find IBD Moms at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IBDMoms/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ibdmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibdmoms/ Find National Ulcerative Colitis Alliance (NUCA) at: Take the survey! https://nuca.life/about-nuca/nuca-survey/ Blog: https://nuca.life/did-uc-blog/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NUCALife/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/nuca_life Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ LinkedIn: https://twitter.com/NUCALife Find Amber J Tresca at: Very...
2018-12-04
05 min
About IBD
It's Important to Share Your Stories
Why is it important to tell our stories? Every person who has IBD is unique and so is their disease journey. You might not think your experience is relevant to others living with IBD or another chronic condition, but it is, in many ways. A story can provide validation and hope while helping put the reality of life with IBD in perspective. Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles and IBD Moms and I continue our discussion of how we can support others with IBD through telling our stories and listening to yours. Find Brooke Abbott, The Crazy Creole Mom...
2018-11-27
28 min
About IBD
Community Doesn’t Just Create Itself
What are your traditions around Thanksgiving? What we eat and how we celebrate Thanksgiving depends on where we live, our ethnicity, and our family traditions. What matters is coming together and remembering to be thankful. Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles and IBD Moms tells me about some of her family’s Thanksgiving traditions and how she talks about being grateful with her son. We discuss some of the ways we try to support the IBD community and what we can do better, especially during the hectic and stressful holiday season. Plus, see the end of the show not...
2018-11-20
30 min
About IBD
How Much Information Do You Put Out There?
Dating can be challenging for anyone at any stage in life, but having IBD and/or other chronic conditions adds another level of difficulty that can be disconcerting. Angela Cohen was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease after her intestine perforated. Her long-term relationship ended not long after and she was thrust into the dating world. What she discovered while going on more than a few "first dates” was illuminating not only about how IBD and other autoimmune conditions are perceived by potential partners but also about herself and what she wants to get out of dating, as well as her life...
2018-11-13
41 min
About IBD
I Just Kept Living With Bad Pain
Even when you’re knowledgeable about IBD, it can still sneak up on you and skew your perception of how much control the disease has over your life. Angelica Catalano, Director of Media Partnerships at The Mighty, describes how ulcerative colitis has affected her since her diagnosis at the age of 6, and how she was living with symptoms on a daily basis. Emergency surgery shook her world, prompting her to make a change in her treatment program to prevent future IBD-related complications. Through her work at The Mighty, Angelica pursues her passion of helping people with chronic illness improve their qua...
2018-11-06
41 min
About IBD
I'm Sick and Nobody Will Help Me
What have you done when you couldn’t get anyone to take the symptoms of IBD seriously and you found yourself out of options? For Meredith, the road to a Crohn’s disease diagnosis was long and so frustrating that she wound up pleading for help from a specialist she’d never met. Going online to connect with other patients also took Meredith to places both light and dark, and she, Jaime, and I sort through our various experiences with social media as well as how we can work towards creating more hopeful content for new IBD patients in the future...
2018-10-30
45 min
About IBD
I Am Beyond Thankful
Is it possible to take the diagnosis that turned your world upside down and turn it into a positive force in your life? My guest on About IBD is Lilly Stairs, Head of Patient Advocacy at Clara Health who lives with Crohn’s disease did exactly that. First diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, it was only after Lilly’s symptoms weren’t improving and she was in and out of the hospital that healthcare providers finally discovered a Crohn’s disease flare-up in her small bowel. Lilly found the right mix of treatments to get her Crohn’s under control and now works w...
2018-10-16
45 min
About IBD
Welcome to Camp Oasis
What is your favorite week of the year? For the kids, counselors, and volunteers at Camp Oasis, their favorite is camp week. Learn more about a summer camp that’s designed especially for kids who have IBD but is also the place where the campers actually feel the most freedom from their disease. Amber visited camp on visitor’s day and talked with campers, leaders in training, and counselors to find out what makes Camp Oasis so special to them. Find out more about Camp Oasis: http://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/get-involved/camp-oasis/ Find Camp Oasis locations: http://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/get-inv...
2018-09-11
32 min
About IBD
Why Didn't I Do This Sooner?
What happens when a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease stands between you and your chosen career? This is exactly the barrier that veteran journalist and news anchor Natalie Hayden faced in the early days after her IBD diagnosis. Her decision was to gather her support system around her and get camera ready. Find out how she made it as a morning news anchor, found the love of her life, started her family, and founded Lights, Camera, Crohn’s. Find Natalie Hayden at: Blog: https://lightscameracrohns.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/nataliesparacio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/natalieasparacio/ Instagram: https://www.instagram...
2018-08-07
53 min
About IBD
You're 40 Something Years Old
How does IBD impact the family? Couples who are thinking about having children when one or both of them have IBD often have questions about how the disease will affect their family. Amber interviews her 8-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son about how IBD does — and doesn’t — affect their lives. Find Amber J Tresca at: Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Blog: http://aboutibd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ibdcrohns/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ Find IBD Moms at: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com...
2018-07-24
26 min
About IBD
You Have to Have Joy With Sara Ringer
With an invisible illness such as IBD, it can be challenging to protect your quality of life. Patient influencers often push themselves in the service of others and that may seem strange to those that follow along on social media. How can someone be so sick and yet be able to attend a medical conference? Sara Ringer of Inflamed and Untamed explains how what you see online can be misleading and how she manages two difficult digestive diseases, all while striving to live a fulfilling life that includes being a resource for other patients seeking information and support.
2018-06-27
45 min
About IBD
I Have Power With Megan Johnson
How can we help new ostomates better adjust to their stoma? Megan Johnson, who you might better know as The Front Butt YouTuber, had a unique journey on the way to becoming a permanent ileostomate due to Crohn’s disease. Her experiences with the abysmal patient education material in the hospital after ostomy surgery sparked her desire to make accessible content that helps people adjust after surgery and “be comfortable in their own skin.” This episode was recorded on location at HealtheVoices in Chicago, under challenging conditions, which is why the audio is less than pristine, but the con...
2018-06-11
54 min
About IBD
You Have To Do Your Research With Vegan Ostomy
It’s estimated that half of people who have an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) try complementary and alternative medicine to treat their disease. Eric Polsinelli of Vegan Ostomy describes how he tried dozens of complementary therapies for his Crohn’s disease but never found anything that worked. He did, however, come away with vital insight about how people living with IBD can assess alternative therapies and talk to their physicians about working them into a comprehensive treatment plan. Find Eric Polsinelli, of Vegan Ostomy, at: Blog: https://www.veganostomy.ca/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/veganostomy/ Facebook: https://www.face...
2018-05-20
40 min
About IBD
You Get Tired With Shawntel Bethea and Brooke Abbott
The healthcare space isn’t a level playing field. Minority populations face complex challenges when it comes to accessing and receiving care, which is why April is designated as National Minority Health Month. In regards to inflammatory bowel disease, it’s not well known that Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis also affect minorities. Shawntel Bethea of Chronically Strong and Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles discuss how they’ve been affected by healthcare disparity and offer concrete ideas on what can be done to start addressing healthcare gaps in their communities. Learn more about National Minority Health M...
2018-05-08
43 min
About IBD
This Is Just The Beginning With Michael Tresca
Take a journey back to 1999, when cellphones were a rarity, dial-up internet access was still used, and Amber had her first surgery of the 2-step j-pouch process. Amber’s husband Mike, a writer and communicator, journaled his thoughts on the day of the surgery. This journal was recently uncovered and Amber reads it to Mike and gets his reactions and further recollections of that challenging day. You can find out more about Amber and Mike in Episode 8, where you’ll hear about being told surgery was needed and find out about their fairytale wedding: https://soundcloud.com/amber-j-tresca/michael-tresca Conditions and...
2018-04-03
52 min
About IBD
Amber Answers the IBD Advocacy Tag Questions
Megan Johnson of The Front Butt YouTuber has presented 5 questions for people with IBD to answer and then tag someone else using #IBDAdvocacyTag. It’s a great way to get to know people in the community better and hear different perspectives. My answer to the form of IBD I have is not going to be what you expect and my socially awkward moment is pretty epic: I remember every detail about it, even though it happened almost two decades ago. And who did I tag? Well, I do that in my own way, too. If you decide to participate, use #IB...
2018-03-20
32 min
About IBD
You Have To Be Happy Within Yourself
Pregnancy and birth are different for women with IBD. There are not only challenges that come from the disease itself but the lack of awareness about IBD during pregnancy can lead to less than optimal treatment. Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles describes how she coped with ulcerative colitis during her pregnancy and a birth that did not go as she’d hoped or as she’d expected. Learn how everything turned out in the end and find out what Brooke and Amber think pregnant women with IBD should do to prepare for birth and for those firs...
2018-03-06
40 min
About IBD
When IBD Gets Married With Jaime Weinstein
Getting married is a joyful time in one’s life. Until you have to bring your IBD and body image difficulties along when you shop for your wedding dress, that is. Learn how Crohn’s disease affected Jaime’s perceptions about body image throughout her life and how it all culminated in a trip to a bridal shop that left her angry and frustrated. Plus, we share our best tips for making the dress shopping, and eventual wedding day attire wearing, go more smoothly if IBD decides to make make an appearance. Ideas and products mentioned in this podcast: The Bridal...
2018-02-19
48 min
About IBD
We Are Not Unique With Christy Stone of Crohnie Bologna
Are you unique? Do you represent most patients with IBD? Christy Stone of Crohnie Bologna tells the story of her disease journey, how she feels that she’s not unique as an inflammatory bowel disease patient, why she chooses kindness, and why these things make her a better advocate. Find Christy Stone, Crohnie Bologna, at: Blog: http://www.crohniebolognaibd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrohnieBolognaIbd/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrohnieBologna Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crohnie_bologna_ibd/ Find Amber J Tresca at: Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ib...
2018-02-06
38 min
About IBD
2017 Year End Wrap-Up
Welcome to the year-end wrap up show! I put together clips from my first 14 shows that drop the heaviest knowledge bombs about how life with IBD affects us, our careers, our relationships, and our stress levels. Do you have an IBD Elevator Speech? I got you, here’s where you can learn to create yours after you listen to Brooke Abbott give hers: https://www.verywell.com/how-to-create-your-ibd-elevator-speech-1942452 Find Christy Stone, Crohnie Bologna, at: Blog: http://www.crohniebolognaibd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrohnieBolognaIbd/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/CrohnieBologna Instagram: https://www.instagram.co...
2018-01-04
33 min
About IBD
Don't Let IBD Ruin Your Day
Did you know that more than 70% of people with IBD have reported bathroom accidents (fecal incontinence)? Did you also know that only around 20% ask for help from their physicians? It’s a sensitive topic, to be sure, which is why I offer advice on how to cope with this problem and how to avoid it in the first place. If you’re struggling with this issue I have tips that you can use today but the best advice is to talk to your doctor about it (and I discuss that also!). 2:53: IBD is not a pooping disease!
2017-10-17
00 min
About IBD
Getting Stress Relief With Dr Tiffany Taft
How does stress affect IBD? We know that stress does not cause IBD, but it does affect the disease. How does IBD actually cause stress, and what can we do to balance our lives in such a way that it does not affect us in a negative way? I talk with my guest, Dr Taft, about how she advises patients with chronic diseases on relieving stress and the tips and tools that have worked for her and her patients in integrating a comprehensive stress relief program into daily life. :28 The role of stress as it applies to...
2017-09-26
42 min
About IBD
Health Advocacy With Brooke Abbott
Are you ready to tell your story? Your legislators in Washington D.C., in your state, and your home town want to hear from you about how IBD has affected your life and the legislation you care about. Brooke Abbott of The Crazy Creole Mommy Chronicles and Amber tell you how to get started in health activism and how to make your voice heard in our government! 6:00: What’s an IBD Elevator Speech? Hear Brooke’s and then use the create your own. 7:15: Find out what happens when you meet with the staff in your repr...
2017-08-30
1h 06
About IBD
Michael Tresca, Well Spouse and Amber's Husband
What's it like to watch your partner's ulcerative colitis become life-threatening and not be able to do anything about it? My husband, Mike, tells my story from his perspective, including how we met, what it was like to watch my health degrade, and all about our fairy tale wedding. Featured Guest: Michael Tresca Twitter: https://twitter.com/worldofwelstar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldofwelstar/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talien Want to become a Lady or Lord of Glencoe, like Amber? Buy your plot of land here: https://www.highlandtitles.com ...
2017-07-21
1h 01
About IBD
About IBD Podcast 8 - Michael Tresca, Amber's Husband
What's it like to watch your partner's ulcerative colitis become life-threatening and not be able to do anything about it? My husband, Mike, tells my story from his perspective, including how we met, what it was like to watch my health degrade, and all about our fairy tale wedding. Featured Guest: Michael Tresca Twitter: https://twitter.com/worldofwelstar Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worldofwelstar/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/talien Want to become a Lady or Lord of Glencoe, like Amber? Buy your plot of land here: https://www.highlandtitles.com No, there are no utensils at Medieval Times. But...
2017-07-21
1h 01
About IBD
Let's Talk About That Fungus Thing
The first edition of my About IBD Podcast where I talk about this fungus fracas, how it relates to Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and why I'm not too worked up about IBD research done on mice. Find Amber J Tresca of About IBD at: Verywell: https://www.verywell.com/ibd-crohns-colitis-4014703 Blog: http://aboutibd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aboutIBD/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/aboutIBD Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aboutibd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/about_IBD/ Credits: "About IBD with Amber Tresca" ©Cooney Studio http://cooneystudio.com/
2017-03-26
27 min