I don't know what to do. I have a jpouch and have had complications ever since I got it, and now they say I might have Crohn's so they're starting me on Remicade. The thing is I started graduate school this year (part time) and now I want to quit. I can tell there's an absolute connection between stressful weeks and a major increase in symptoms and I'm looking at the next three years thinking, there's no way I want to do this, it's hard enough having this diagnosis as it is. Does anyone think it would be ok to just quit grad school (which is actually being paid for by the gov't) and do what i really love for a living (teach piano lessons part time)? I mean would it really be that bad do you think?

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Kate1981,

Just my opinion, but no one should tell you what decision is best for you. This is your life, and the decisions you make now have both short and long term consequences.

You know best what is right for you. If Grad School is too taxing at this time, you can always go back in the future if your situation changes. It is not now or never. Or you can choose another path altogether.

Good luck in determining the right path for yourself. You don't need validation from others to make changes in your life that make you happy and healthy. You know best.

-Nicole

oh thanks that's really good advice. I think it's just that my parents area always really pushing me to stay in grad school. yes and I could always go back later or online or something.

Whatever path you choose, if you are happy, it isn't wrong. Far too many people settle for work they don't like or even hate because they think they have to meet someone else's idea of a career.

If you can support yourself with what you love to do, consider yourself blessed and get on with it!

Hi Kate,

I'm sorry to hear about the possible Crohn's diagnosis. Hopefully the remicade will work.

But - don't you think you need to give the Dr.'s suggestion a try before making this "life decision?" If I were in your position, I would have to ask myself just how passionate I am about completing my graduate degree and whether or not I was willing to give up because of health concerns. Noone else can make this decision for you. If you would be happy doing something else and you think it would be a better use of your gifts (such as piano lessons), then go for it. But if you want your graduate degree to get into a field you want to work in, then you have to be willing to work past the curves that life throws at you. Don't let UC/CD/IBD wear you down and abandon your ambitions and dreams

I hope things work out for the best.

Rick

I'm with Rick on this one. If you want to complete grad school, then waiting to see if the Remicade is effective makes sense. You should know in 6-8 weeks. However, if your heart really isn't in it and you are really only there to please your parents, then this may be your opportunity to beg off while still saving face. I know as a parent that I only want the best for my children and most importantly, for them to be happy. I encourage them in education, but the decision is completely theirs on how to proceed. I certainly would not want them involved in something that only causes stress and anxiety.

Another thing to think about is whether you can support yourself teaching piano lessons part time. Since you already have your undergrad degree, you probably still have lots of options career-wise. Maybe it is time for some face time with your counselor.

Jan

Follow your heart Kate.At the end of everything that is what matters most.What ever you decide I wish you health and happiness.