ANA | YAN

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Don't worry my baby

First of all, you don’t need to congratulate me or ask me the question; I'm not pregnant.

However, it's in our future plans as a couple more and more. When we meet a person whom we are really in love with and want to build projects, we start planning events that make us feel good. As far back as I can remember, I have always wanted to be a mom. There were two things I was certain about when I was a little girl: the desire to be a teacher and the one of being a mother. My first dream became reality over two years ago, and the second is more and more in our heads and hearts. Having lost my mother at a young age, I have always wanted to build a family. I met a man who encourages me to go further in life and with whom I want to fullfill that desire.

Even when I was sick, despite the highs and lows, I always kept that dream in mind. Just before my surgery in February 2013, I asked my doctor if I could still have children after. Without hesitation, she was able to reassure me. I was so relieved to know that several women have had children after undergoing surgery. However, since my belly might change form, I would have to be followed more closely by my ET nurse to make sure my ostomy appliance is properly adapted to me.

My sister-in-law already asked me if I was hesitant about having children due to my illness. Well, I had never really thought about it before. It might seem selfish but I want to see what life reserves for us. Since Crohn's disease can be transmitted genetically, my children could have the disease. They could be carriers and never develop any symptoms or they could become very ill. The possibilities are there but for once in my life, I don’t want to consider the negative options. I only want to think about all the positive things life can offer me, my family and the people around me. I also considered the fact that because of my personal history, I would be able to properly guide my children if they were ever touched by the disease. After all, the role of parents is to take care of their children and to love them no matter what. Don’t worry my baby, I'll always be there for you.

Elisabeth