Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards

How's it going guys, my name's J.C. I have had Heather's books now for 2-3 weeks and they have already helped immensely. Now that the initial shock of what the books proposed is now over, I figure that I might as well introduce myself to this forum. If you haven't read my profile, I'm 18 years old, live in Glendale AZ, and will be a freshman at Arizona State University West going after a doctorate in psychology. My hobbies are working out at LA Fitness, hanging out with friends, and playing video games. I also work a lot: I'm a host at Claimjumper Restaurant. For all of you who aren't familiar with Claimjumper, let me tell you that it is the restaurant most famous for giving you so much food you pretty much are forced to take it home, and it will probably last you two more meals. What a great place to work with IBS!

Anyways, I would also like to point out that even though I am new to learning how to control my IBS through using the books, I have found much needed immediate satisfaction from them. I have never been so happy before. I have had it for about 5 years, give or take, and I have had many rough experiences with it. Let me explain.

For example, I went to Disneyland with my family two years ago (by the way, I love that California Adventure park

). My mom and sister made sure to save their favorite thing at Disneyland for the last night we were there: the parade. As soon as we gathered around and found a spot, with no elbow room as you can imagine if you've ever been there, IBS started to pay me a visit. Yep, managed to ruin my family's favorite experience at Disneyland, and boy did that feel good.

Unfortunately, I have many more stories just like this one, but why say any more.

On a more brief note, throughout these years I have had much trouble with jobs, travel, and friends (from restaurants) because of the disorder. I am estatic to finally realize that all of this may (and will) change.

Knowing that I am not alone is a HUGE thing as well. For years my mom told me that my "gas attacks" were from my unhealthy eating (my diet has consisted of pizza, hamburgers, ham, cheese crisps, hot dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches and the like for the past 18 years, oh and let's not forget cheetos). And just about 3 weeks ago, bam, I learn that I am not this "weird" person having this unknown problem (I call it unknown becuase my family doctor called it spastic colon but never provided why it was that, pretty much dismissing the problem as fast as she could). Though my eating was the problem, I never knew I had a proven (or unproven if you've read the books) disorder.

The point to all this? I'm not sure there is one. I just want to say that I am truly greatful to have a way to protect myself from the greatest threat in my life. Oh, and to just say "hi" as well.

I'll be around.
Holla back

-J.C.

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- John

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