The impact of Crohn’s on my education

I had always wanted to be a marine biologist. It’s even in my grade twelve yearbook. I started the bachelor of science program. But I actually completed an arts degree and eventually became a social worker. I know, it seems contradictory. But I think this is something that I can attribute to my diagnosis of Crohn’s disease.

At such a young age of 21, to be so ill and vulnerable, I learned early that it is okay to lean on others and absorb any supports available. I had to meet with ministers and social workers to plan my young future. The social workers in particular inspired me.

So when it was time that I could resume my university studies I was no longer the same young woman who had left school a year earlier due to illness. I met with a faculty advisor and he asked me what I was interested in. We talked in general terms about my work and volunteer and school history and interests. The options that came out were not science and biology. It was the helping professions like social work. So I started a new path that day.

I went on to complete my education and started working in the helping field. It was a good fit. Without the experiences of Crohn’s disease I would not have changed my path. But this new path fit me so well, I feel it was meant to be.