Life with a chronic illness is never easy, and Yvonne Holly knows this better than most. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just 11 years old, she has spent decades navigating the unpredictable challenges that come with managing a lifelong condition. In this week’s episode of The Beautiful Bag podcast, Yvonne—known as @CrohnsMummy on Instagram—opens up about her incredible journey, sharing the struggles, triumphs, and lessons she has learned along the way.

A Lifetime of Challenges

For years, Yvonne battled the symptoms of Crohn’s disease, enduring countless flare-ups, hospital stays, and surgeries. One of her most difficult struggles was living with a perianal abscess for nine years—an excruciating experience that affected every aspect of her life. In 2010, she underwent a colostomy, which eventually became permanent in 2016. Though it was a daunting change, Yvonne describes the procedure as life-saving, giving her relief she never thought possible.

Pregnancy and Crohn’s Disease

Despite her health challenges, Yvonne always dreamed of becoming a mother. Her journey to parenthood was far from conventional—every pregnancy had to be carefully planned around her health. Miraculously, pregnancy had a positive impact on her Crohn’s symptoms, giving her temporary relief from the disease’s relentless grip. However, complications during her second pregnancy brought new fears and difficulties. The moment her daughter Felicity was born, she faced her own health battles, leaving Yvonne to grapple with the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a newborn while fighting for her own survival.

Surviving Sepsis and Surgeries

Yvonne’s resilience was put to the test when she was rushed into the hospital with sepsis—an experience she describes as terrifying. Signing papers for emergency surgeries, she recalls thinking, Take it all away—just let me survive for my children. Over the years, she has undergone more than 50 surgeries, each one a reminder of the fragility of life but also of her incredible strength.

Learning to Love Her Ostomy

For many, the idea of living with an ostomy can be daunting. But for Yvonne, her colostomy bag is nothing short of a blessing. “I love my colostomy bag just as much as my children,” she says. “It has given me my life back.” What was once a source of fear and uncertainty has become a symbol of resilience and renewal.

The Power of Talking About Illness

One of Yvonne’s biggest messages is the importance of speaking openly about chronic illness. For years, she carried the weight of her struggles in silence, feeling an immense sense of responsibility for the challenges she and her daughter faced. But through sharing her story, she has found healing—not just for herself, but for others who might be silently suffering. “Never suffer in silence,” she urges. “Talking about your illness can do wonderful things to your brain.”

Finding Positivity in Adversity

Through every obstacle, Yvonne has remained determined to find the light in the darkest moments. She believes that even in the face of extreme hardship, there is always something to be grateful for. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of community support, and the profound impact of embracing life’s unexpected journeys.

Final Thoughts

Yvonne’s journey is one of immense strength, vulnerability, and triumph. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable challenges, it is possible to reclaim your life, embrace your reality, and find joy in the journey. Whether living with a chronic illness or navigating personal struggles, Yvonne’s message is clear: You are not alone. You are stronger than you think. And there is always hope.