Describe your life prior to diagnosis.
Growing up, I felt a lack of energy constantly. I needed naps constantly and would sleep 12 hours every night. By the time I was 19, I was throwing up almost every day and suffering from severe migraines to the point where my eyes would swell shut. My doctor gave me medicine to treat the migraines and that helped, but I needed to know why they are caused.
How did you come to know (or suspect) that you have celiac disease?
In January of that year, I started to break out in a rash on my back. As a pre-medical student I knew what a celiac rash looked like. I went to the doctor and she agreed.
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?
It took me about three years to determine I had celiac disease. Many doctors in my rural area had a lack of knowledge about celiac disease. All I heard was ‘just eat gluten-free,’ but there was a lot of emotion and hard work involved to heal.
Do you believe anything could have sped up your diagnosis? If so, please explain.
As a child my doctor told me I would likely have severe allergies. I wish my parents would have pushed harder for more testing when I started feeling bad in high school.
Describe your experience with living with celiac disease.
At first it was very hard. I live in a rural area where gluten-free food and restaurants are hard to find. I am in college, which makes it impossible to eat on campus. As a pre-medical student I have fears of getting glutened before big exams. Luckily, my professors are very understanding, which I am grateful for.
My family and I have learned to adapt to a gluten-free lifestyle. I noticed big changes in my life. I suddenly was able to accomplish a lot more in the day, and my grades increased dramatically. I have a higher quality of life now post-diagnosis. I now can enjoy a lot more because I feel so much better. I am able to put more effort into my career and hopefully spread awareness about celiac disease.
Is there anything else you’d like to add to your story?
I am happy to go on to medical school where one day I can do more research into celiac disease and how to help those who are just like me.
