As I ascended the side of a mountain on my weekly hike, the ground still covered in places with fresh snowfall, the scent of damp scrub oak leaves filling my senses with pungent bliss I was reminded of my great gratitude in having my IC in remission.  Although I still have the occasional relapse my IC no longer defines who I am or drives every decision of my life and I am thankful to have the energy to spread hope and awareness to others struggling from IC and related diseases.  As I reflected on my dark days lived with IC, where even taking a hike filled me with dread as I wondered if the pain in my bladder and vagina, once flooded with endorphins would cause a painful flareup.

My thoughts echoed the to and fro calling of the birds and mountain squirrels signaling the cry of warning to one another from the tops of the trees as I rounded another heavily wooded section of the trail head.  One moment I was myself four years ago-riddled with pain trying to walk for the exercise but not really enjoying it-and the next I was vigorously walking a trail pain free and smiling.  In the next moment I knew what my blog entry would be for the upcoming week!  I would like to place an invitation to anyone suffering from IC who would like to contact me to have your IC story published on this website for others to read.  Do you have a diet, doctor or treatment protocol that is giving you both hope and a lessening of your pain?  What are your thoughts about a hereditary link to IC?  The questions could go on and on.  All I know is that I would love to be able to share YOUR story of living with IC.  Please send me a private note through the contact me form if you would like to set up an interview.