IBD Patient Survey Results

Notes about this survey:

  • This is not a scientific study. The questions are qualitative not quantitive–each respondent may have a different perception of the world.
  • There is no control over who has completed the survey or any unique identifiers linked to the responses. Although it is unlikely someone has completed it more than once or ‘just for fun’.
  • Number of responses to date: 9 (Unfortunately, I do not have a big social media reach!)
  • The data was compiled into the following charts on the 9th August, 2025. They will be updated as and if more responses come in.

About Me

Hi, I’m John — an IBD warrior, spoonie and  wannabe solo world sailor.


At 16, I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. Since then, I’ve faced a myriad of health conditions that shaped my journey in ways I never expected. Too often, it felt like medical problems were in control of my life.


Ulcerative colitis took away my first dream of a life at sea. Since then, it — along with a few other challenges — has been chipping away at my freedom, gradually pushing me down a path I don’t want to walk.


Not long ago, I missed an opportunity to help someone who was in the same medical position I once was (and still am!).


That moment lit a fire in me.


So now I’m fighting back — fighting to reclaim my childhood dream of sailing solo, non-stop around the world.


Sailing in Hope was born from this mix of struggle, stubbornness, and salt water. This isn’t about being fearless — it’s about facing fear. It isn’t about avoiding every storm — it’s about learning how to navigate them. And most of all, it’s about reminding anyone who feels lost, isolated, or overwhelmed that hope is still out there, waiting on the horizon.

At the age of 15, I made a decision: ignore it, and it might go away. It didn’t. It still hasn’t. But neither have I.

 

The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns or decisions regarding your health.