Kate:

I didn't see any information related to IBS in your link. All I saw was
information on care for the Elderly and Dentistry. Guess I missed it. I'm 36 so
I'm not elderly yet. I'd just like to have friends and maybe if there is a
woman who understands, a companion with IBS and who deal with it regularly
because in my experience people who do not have IBS really belittle the problem
and
at times make jest of it. I've gone through lots of humiliation and lost
many opportunities in part because I have IBS. The only time I've received true
understanding, and that seems to be short lived, is when someone has a bad
day and then they say, I don't know how you cope. Then after the problem is
over, they basically go back to minimizing the affliction and making fun of it.
Would anyone in this world choose to live a secluded life fearful of lengthy
travel on public transportation, having to wear a Depends under the briefs,
worrying how a potential partner might react if they tried to explain the
situation? The summer is hell for me on days when I have to travel far since I
won't wear shorts due to the fear of having an IBS attack. Has anyone ever had
an IBS attack and could not reach a bathroom in time? On a crowded rush hour
subway or even on the street? This is what I'm talking about. Searching out
for friends who truly understand and can relate. I have a gastro Doctor
already and I have gone through upper and lower GI series as well as a
colonoscopy.
I know that IBS is not considered a disease, but it is an affliction I will
have to cope with for the rest of my life. I just want to make friends and
find a woman who understands. I want to live as normal lie I can and I want to
be happy. I don't want to spend the rest of my life alone. Does anyone out
there understand? Care? Or is this just another dead end group?

Mark


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