Jeremy's Story
At the age of one, I was diagnosed with severe reflux, prescribed liquid Zantac and restricted from drinking liquids. This was the beginning of a series of trials of various medications until the right ones were determined when I was 3 ½ years old.
Until that diagnosis was made, any time I sipped a bottle, my mother told me that I would wheeze until I would throw up. I experienced other GI symptoms including weight loss and other unpleasant signs that I’d rather not describe. Once properly diagnosed with Crohns’ Disease and medicated I grew two sizes in just 3 months as I was able to retain food. I swallow a total of 10 capsules and caplets each day to help manage my Crohns’ Disease.
I’m now a 14 year old teenager entering Jericho High School and lead a full and thriving life. I’m doing relatively well in school, recently learned to play the harmonica, love to read and enjoy political science. I get involved in social issues and causes and love to swim and run and roller blade. Dealing with Crohns’ Disease has made me more sensitive to other peoples’ issues which I believe has made me a better person. This has taught me to be grateful because I know that some kids are more severely afflicted but I do know that early detection and proper intervention has helped me to manage my disease.
I would not have been able to manage my disease without all of the efforts of CCFA and Dr. Jeremiah Levine. Because of their help, I am now able to give back and say...I do not let Crohns’ Disease hold me back!
~Jeremy Weissman, age 14