Hello! I am a 33 year old mom of four who was diagnosed with UC while pregnant with my youngest 5 years ago. After initial flare and after my son was born I went into remission for 3 years Guess I was just lucky! The last two years have been horrible to put it mildly. I also have rheumatoid arthritis and have bouts with iritis. I think I have tried every medication available for UC in the last two years and when I ended up in the hospital last Nov. the Dr told me that I could have surgery then or try remicade. I decided that even though it was very expensive I had to at least try...well I get relief for a bit but am no where near remission and am now way in debt to the hospital from having the treatments. I am scheduled to meet with a surgeon on June 2nd to discuss surgery. I will admit I am scared to death and very worried about how it will affect my family but am so ready for anything that will make me feel better and give me at least some of my life back! I have really learned a lot as a guest on this site the last couple weeks and would love to get to know you all a little more...would really love to find a buddy or support group somewhere near by too!