Sarah’s Story

My name is Sarah Duey Carver. I am a wife to an amazing husband, a mom to four wonderful teenagers and an estate planning attorney in Omaha, Nebraska. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when I was 49 years old.   I have struggled with stomach issues for as long as I can remember, and three years ago it was to the point where I needed to get some answers.  Stomach pain, anxiety, not being able to eat, weight loss, exhaustion, feeling defeated, hair falling out, urgency and missing events.  Those of you with IBD know the rollercoaster ride all too well.  One of my doctors insisted I get a colonoscopy.  After many tests and feeling at my worst, I agreed to the colonoscopy.  The colonoscopy revealed possible Crohn’s Disease.  After additional tests, a GI doctor confirmed I have Crohn’s Disease.   I am lucky that I caught it early and that I have been able to live a relatively normal life since starting a medication.  I have learned to take it one step at a time.  

Thank you to my medical team – many of whom are part of Midwest GI in Omaha – for taking excellent care of me and for who genuinely care how I am doing.  And as a side note from my wonderful nurse case managers at Midwest GI who asked me to remind all of you IBD patients out there to lean on your nurse case managers.  They are advocates for you.  Return their calls and communicate frequently if you want the best outcome for your situation. 

A special shout out to my husband, Christian, who has supported me through it all.  Whether it was to take over cooking duties (my kids are calling this a win) or whether it was to heat up my hot pad in the microwave again --he has always had my back.  His patience, love and loyalty are astounding as he has supported me--despite my limitations-- every step of the way.  Thank you, Christian.  

Finally, thanks to the Nebraska/Iowa Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation for all you do for us—whether it’s support groups or events—we appreciate you bringing us together. 

We’re here to completely eradicate IBD so none of us must ride this rollercoaster.  No, it’s not going to happen overnight, but we must continue to TAKE STEPS for a cure. 

Let’s all keep fighting the fight and focusing on what we CAN do both for ourselves and the IBD community to make it better for those who come after us.