Living with Crohn’s Disease: Kristin Rasler’s Story

Welcome to the Mindshift Power podcast, where we have raw and honest conversations with teenagers and the adults who work with them. I'm your host, Fatima Bey, the mind shifter. Today, we are joined by Kristin Rasler, a 21-year-old career services assistant at Schenectady County Community College in New York. Kristin shares her journey of being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease as a teenager and how it has impacted her life.

Understanding Crohn’s Disease

Kristin was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 19, a life-altering condition that affects the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease is an irritable bowel disease (IBD) that can cause severe pain, frequent bathroom trips, blood loss, anemia, and other complications. As an autoimmune disease, it requires ongoing medical attention and management.

Living with Crohn’s Disease

Every six weeks, Kristin undergoes biological infusions, a process that helps manage her symptoms. These infusions involve sitting in a chair for three hours with an IV in her arm. The treatment aims to alleviate pain, prevent weight loss, and address blood loss, but there is no cure for Crohn’s disease. Despite these challenges, Kristin remains resilient and determined to lead a fulfilling life.

The Emotional Impact

Kristin's diagnosis initially hit her hard, and she struggled with feelings of fear and uncertainty. The support of her family played a crucial role in her journey, although some relatives felt guilty and blamed themselves for her condition. Kristin emphasizes the importance of understanding and support from loved ones, noting that being present and caring is often more meaningful than offering unsolicited advice.

Navigating Life as a Teen with Crohn’s

As a teenager, Kristin faced the additional challenge of dealing with her diagnosis while planning her future. She recalls the frustration of being asked about her plans after high school, as she was unsure if she would even make it to college. However, she persevered and is now working part-time, balancing her job with the need to maintain her health insurance.

Advice for Teens with Life-Altering Diagnoses

Kristin offers valuable advice to teenagers diagnosed with life-altering conditions:

1. Don’t Give Up: Seek support and avoid the temptation to give in to depression or suicidal thoughts.
2. Embrace Therapy: Talking to a therapist or psychologist can help manage emotions and mental health.
3. Accept Vulnerability: Being open about your feelings can lead to better mental health and support from others.
4. Find Inspiration: Look for role models and sources of hope to stay motivated.

The Importance of Health Insurance

Kristin highlights the critical role of health insurance in managing chronic conditions. She navigates the complexities of working part-time to maintain her insurance coverage, underscoring the importance of having a safety net for medical expenses.

Final Thoughts

Kristin's story is a testament to resilience and the power of support. Her journey serves as an inspiration for other teens facing similar challenges, showing that it is possible to lead a fulfilling life despite a life-altering diagnosis.

Ready to dive deeper? Listen to the full episode of the MindShift Power Podcast with Fatima Bey The MindShifter here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2217223/episodes/13748871