This time last year it was ResearchEd, and although I had a great day and spent it with lovely people- I was really poorly when this picture was taken. My ulcerative colitis was flaring and I was struggling to get it under control.

The thing with ulcerative colitis is that is one of those awful embarrassing illnesses that no one really wants to hear about and you certainly don’t want to tell them.

I don’t think I’ve ever mentioned it on here, and don’t really like talking about it even with my friends.

It sometimes makes people go- oh I have IBS too, and you have to explain why it’s not the same thing.

Or you have the problem that is you often LOOK fine, and people think you must be okay/putting it on/exaggerating.

In the past I’ve thought it is best to say nothing.

Anyone with UC will tell you how frustrating it can be trying to make plans and get out when you have a flare.

I love running, but this is usually impossible if I’m unwell. I managed this race last year and it was one of the few times I ran whilst poorly.

And, like loads of people, running is really good for my own happiness. It gives me a space to think and I love the buzz you get at the end of a run. I’m slow- but it doesn’t matter to me.

Not running was hard. But whilst the flare was out of control it was impossible.

Teaching and IBD don’t really go well together.

I would often miss school as I was having to go to hospital and have treatment/tests.

It partly contributed to why I decided to leave teaching as after my last pregnancy I had a very bad flare and I needed to make changes.

Looking back at the photos from last September I’m reminded of how lucky I am now to not have to think about it all the time.

Flares happen for me when I don’t look after myself. When I was teaching, getting flares under control was much harder.

If you’re teaching with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s and you’re recently diagnosed you might feel embarrassed asking for the extra help you need.

Please don’t be! My experience has been people are much more understanding than you would expect.

Small adjustments can make a huge difference so ask for them! It’s better to ask and manage then don’t and struggle.

And make best friends with your IBD nurse as they’re usually awesome humans with all the medication and answers you need.

Feeling healthy is the best feeling. Whenever I feel like skipping a run or a workout I think HOW LUCKY AM I to have the choice to do it.

Here is to 9+ more months of feeling healthy and no more flares @CrohnsColitisUK