Hiya! My name is Patrick. Here's a brief overview of my story:

I was 12 when, after describing my stool at great length, my family
doctor first stuck his finger up my butt. I repeated that
unpleasant experience, both the fingers and the stool discussion, a
number of times before being sent to a gastroenterologist. I was
good for most of that year. At 13 I got really sick, missed mosted
of 8th grade, had enough steroids pumped into my body to leave with
stretch marks as an enduring reminder. A week before my 14th
birthday I had my large intestine removed. 5 months later I had the
reconnect. The operation, I was told, would cure me. Cure is such
a strong word.
I'm 26 now and, while my quality of life has improved from lying on
the couch watching Knight Rider reruns, I spend about a third of my
conscious hours walking (if not running) and going to the bathroom.
Another third is spent thinking about whether I have to go, and the
last third is plotting my day's path in such a way that will ensure
I'm never far from a bathroom. People who don't understand this
disease would call me lazy, but the stress of this everyday
occurance leaves me exhausted. It's easier to stay at home, read,
and always have a toilet near. The idea of going to "the country"
scares the pants off me.

I've never gone to support groups, but I'd love to hear other
people's stories. The post that encouraged me to join was titled
Dreading the Heat. I can relate to that. About 5 minutes outside
in 90 degree weather is enough to zap every ounce of fluid from my
system. My face flushes a bright shade of cherry red, I can feel my
pulse in the back of my head and my legs go to jelly.

I enjoy writing about this, the one topic I know. If you don't like
what I write, email me and tell me why. I can handle it. And if
you do like it, share with me your stories. C & C sucks. It sucks
every single day. The only way I know how to deal with it is by
laughing. Hope to hear from you soon.

Patrick