A J-Pouch is a Journey... with Pit Stops

Nov 10 2024 14 ep. 25 mins 4

A J-Pouch is a Journey... with Pit Stops Podcast artwork

My name is Suzanne Lafleur, and I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis when I was 23 years old. At 33, I went through 4 major surgeries to remove my large intestine, and now I live my life with a J-Pouch. If you don’t know what I am talking about, I invite you to follow me to learn and understand. Living with these autoimmune diseases is not easy. Together, let's change that. Let’s build a community of support instead. To my fellow J-Pouchers, join me in spreading knowledge through open conversation. Please email me at [email protected] to share your story.

Society & Culture Health & Fitness

Copy RSS

Subscribe on Podcast Addict

The Infamous Butt Burn

Nov 10 2024 15 mins

The notorious ‘butt burn’ we face after J-Pouch surgery is no small matter. If you have a J-Pouch, you know exactly what I’m talking about. I never imagined I’d be having open conversation about this with people I’ve never even met, yet here I am! This podcast is here to help you find ways to manage it — until that burn is just a memory. You can do this!If there’s a t

I'm in Pain! Hydration Support for Our Bodies

Nov 04 2024 9 mins

For years, I couldn’t understand why I was dealing with intense joint, tendon, and tissue pain. I felt like I was managing an arthritic condition, along with Crohn’s and my J-Pouch. I also struggled with brain fog and extreme fatigue. Then, with my new GI specialist’s help, we found that due to my J-Pouch I am not hydrating properly, even with the electrolytes that I take dai

My Last Two J-Pouch Surgeries and So Much More!

Oct 22 2024 30 mins

I have returned to discuss more about J-Pouch surgery, the recovery after the take down procedure, and the significance of seeking support during our illnesses and surgical experiences. While it can be challenging to persevere at times, we can overcome this together!

My New J-Pouch with Jeff from Lancaster, Ohio

Apr 07 2023 43 mins

Jeff, from Lancaster, Ohio, received his J-Pouch surgeries from February to November last year. He joined me today to talk about his journey through Ulcerative Colitis, his J-Pouch surgeries, and how he is now managing his new J-Pouch with intermittent fasting and proper nutrition. If you would like to share your story through bowel disease, or J-Pouch, please reach out to me at su

I'm Back!! The Importance of Self Care

Mar 16 2023 11 mins

I am back at it after taking time for self care! We all go through stressful times in our lives that require us to prioritize. When you have an autoimmune disease and you are chronically unwell it is very important to prioritize yourself in times of stress in order to avoid further illness and flares. If you would like to share your journey through life with Ulcerative Colitis, Cro

Teenaged Diagnosis of Ulcerative Colitis to Ironman with a J-Pouch with Troy from California

Feb 16 2023 43 mins

Troy from California took the time to sit with me to talk about his journey through Ulcerative Colitis as a teenager. From diagnosis to dating to competing in Ironman competitions with a J-Pouch as an adult. I am delighted to share these stories of fortitude and positivity! If you would like to share your journey through gastrointestinal disease, or J-Pouch please contact me at suz

Managing Return to Work After J-Pouch Surgery with Chris from Calgary, Canada

Feb 11 2023 41 mins

Chris, a Westjet Encore pilot from Calgary, Canada, joined me today to talk about his J-Pouch journey and his return to work after two years at home. He candidly discussed his diagnosis, his surgical journey amid Covid, his mental health throughout his journey, and his return to work. If you would like to share your journey through Ulcerative Colitis, Crohn's Disease, Bowel Cancer

Sleep and Nighttime Accidents with Paul from Scottland

Jan 25 2023 30 mins

Along with our J-Pouch comes issues with sleep and nighttime accidents. I had the pleasure of speaking with Paul from Scotland regarding his journey and how he has managed life and employment through lack of sleep and nighttime accidents. If you would like to share your journey through gastrointestinal disease with a J-Pouch, please feel free to contact me at suzannellafleur@gmail.

My Second J-Pouch with Amy from Albuquerque, New Mexico

Jan 21 2023 40 mins

Amy, from Albuquerque, New Mexico, shares her story about J-Pouch surgery in the 1990s and another J-Pouch surgery in 2018. What a journey! I am thrilled to share this positive and informed woman's journey with you today. If you are facing a second J-Pouch journey and would like to reach out to Amy, she would be happy to speak with you. You can contact her at [email protected]

Oh Those J-Pouch Babies - Having Babies with a J-Pouch or Ileostomy

Jan 10 2023 35 mins

For young ladies living with gastrointestinal diseases, which might require a J-Pouch or Ileostomy in the future, there seems to be that looming question, "Will I be able to have children?" Steph from Australia and Jennifer from Ohio joined me for a candid conversation about pregnancy and childbirth in all stages of gastrointestinal illness or surgery. If you have any further quest