About the Author

Hello there, my name is Katie!
I am 21 years old and currently living in Saint Albans, VT. I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease at 6 years old and grew up as a Navy kid moving back and forth across the country for most of my life. Two years ago, I began my education at Villanova University in pursuit of a nursing degree. In August, 2021 I had a bowel resection surgery to remove 16 inches of my intestine. Currently, I am taking a medical leave of absence from college during the 2021-2022 school year. 
This unexpected gap year provides me with the opportunity to reflect on my time in college so far. Living with a chronic illness is difficult in any situation but the challenges presented to college students are incredibly unique. I hope that this blog can help other students battling chronic conditions feel less alone.