Hi- my name is Em Goodspeed. I have gone to this site for advice for several years, and have now finally decided to join.
I am currently 26 years old. I was diagnosed with UC at age 17 (in 2001). At first I had some mild set backs, but things really started acting up in 2003. I have been diagnosed with Crohn's by some docs, UC by others, both by some, and label indeterminate by others (I imagine that this is not uncommon).
I went from 145lbs to 84 lbs in about a year. It was pretty scary for a while. I did every type of conventional and unconventional medicine, herbal supplements, diet, IV treatments, chiropractic care, cognitive therapy, art therapy, and even hypnosis.
I really did not want surgery. But in April 2005 my body was literally shutting down and I pretty much had no choice. However, I would like to say that I am VERY happy with my surgeries. I wouldn't be living today if I didn't have them, and I wish I had them sooner.
I had a complete colectomy with the creation of a j-pouch. I only had an ostomy bag for 6 months (over the course of the 3 surgeries). My surgeries were done at Albany Medical by Dr. Lee - and he did a great job.
Post surgery I have had some ups and downs. I have had 3 blockages, a few episodes of pouchitis, and have been diagnosed with a reoccurance of mild Crhon's. One of my blockages happened right after I had a c-section, but other than that the pregnancy & delivery went smoothly.
This site has helped me out countless times in the past. I think it is about time that I join and participate. Hopefully I can help someone else out sometime too

oh! I forgot to add that I did a fundraiser for UC/Crohn's disease. In July 2007 I hike the Northville Placid trail (a 160 mile trail in the Adirondacks in NY). I called it Hike for CCRAP (Crohn's/Colitis Recovery, Awareness, and Prevention). My best friend did it with me and we raised over $4000 for the CCFA!
It was a great time. I had planned to do the fundraiser every year, but life got in the way. However, I do hope to start the fundraiser again at some point and maybe do a differnt activity such as kayaking or biking.
If there is anyone in the Adirondack region of NY who might wanna join then let me know! My best friend who I did it with now lives in Oregon!
take care