‘WE ARE in this together’ is the message from a Rugby mum with a debilitating illness who is reaching out to others.
Melanie McLaughlin was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease – an inflammatory bowel disease – some 20 years ago.
The mum-of-four said she began experiencing symptoms as early as 14 but they were dismissed as tummy bugs.
Eventually she was diagnosed following an operation to have part of her intestines removed.
Throughout her life, her symptoms have continued to flare – though Melanie was told it was all in her head.
After a second operation, a collapsed lung and pneumonia, it was discovered she also had osteoporosis – a condition which weakens the bones.
The 42-year-old said: “It was a constant struggle, day and night but I carried on with positive thinking and attitude.
“If it’s not the Crohn’s pains, it’s the bugs and infections I keep coming down with. It just gets too much sometimes.
“I don’t get invited out any more, I have no real friends and the mental and emotional side of the Crohn’s gets to me on a daily basis. I am constantly in and out of this dark place which is why I want to give so much thanks to Crohns and Colitis UK and other support networks giving me love and support – it means the world.”
Now Melanie has decided to take matters into her own hands and has launched a support group for others with invisible illnesses in Rugby.
She explained invisible disabilities could refer to those with symptoms such as debilitating pain or fatigue, brain injuries, learning differences and mental health disorders.
She added: “The bottom line is that everyone with a disability is different, with varying challenges and needs, as well as abilities and attributes. Thus, we all should learn to listen with our ears, instead of judging with our eyes.
“The message I hope to pass on through sharing my story is – fight on, be positive and be happy.
“We are here to provide awareness, education, connection and support for everyone who lives with a debilitating condition. And to give hope and compassion to all living with this as well as information for loved ones to better understand.
“’I hope you get better soon’, ‘you look perfectly fine’, ‘is it contagious?’ are some of the things I hate to hear. People don’t understand I have Crohn’s disease for the rest of my life.
“I try and live my life as best as I can. Some days I get up and I can face the world and some days all I want is to stay in bed all day.
“Much love goes out to the people who are suffering from a long term or chronic illness. We are all in this together.”
The support group takes place at Rugby Methodist Church, on Russelheim Way, on the second Thursday of every month from 11am to 1pm.
The next group is on January 10.
Search ‘Invisible Illness Support Group Rugby’ on Facebook for more details.
