AliciaThe Voices of Celiac Disease

“I did not completely commit to a gluten-free diet until this year at age 39. Six months before my 40th birthday and it’s been life-changing.”

A photo of a brightly colored cake with the candles lit.

Describe your life prior to diagnosis:

I constantly dealt with stomach pain, cramping, and a feeling of trapped gas. It was brutal!

How did you come to know (or suspect) that you have celiac disease?

I had a peer explain her symptoms which were very similar to my own. It took years to finally request the test from my doctor.

How long did it take for you to get diagnosed since your first symptoms and what (if any) challenges did you face along the way?

I have had various stomach pains my entire life, but it became a question to myself around the age of 24.

Do you believe anything could have sped up your diagnosis? If so, please explain:

I would not have known where to direct my issues because they seemed to be “basic.”

Describe your experience with living with celiac disease:

I was diagnosed at age 33, I gradually began making diet changes but I did not completely commit to a gluten-free diet until this year at age 39. Six months before my 40th birthday and it’s been life changing.