Meet Lesley
Lesley was misdiagnosed with IBS at 23, before being correctly diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 34. It’s been a long, complicated journey – but she’s hopeful HealthMatch can help.
“I’ve tried so many things, my condition has had a huge impact on my life. I’ve been searching for years for a trial, and HealthMatch found me my first one.”
Lesley, 72 — Ulcerative colitis
Lesley’s story
It took me 11 years to be properly diagnosed. I’ve had numerous flareups, colonoscopies, multiple procedures. I’ve had stints on prednisone with bad side effects, Imuran caused a violent reaction. You name it, I’ve tried it. I can’t exercise for more than 10 minutes without my fecal incontinence getting in the way.
I tried accessing stem cell treatment, but it was in the US, and I couldn’t afford that. I asked my gastroenterologist about trials within Australia, but they didn’t seem to know what was available. It was very hard trying to access a trial local to me.
Then I got an ad for HealthMatch on my phone. When I saw it, I knew I had to try it. It’s been straightforward to use, and I’ve already matched with a trial. I’ve finally found a resource that I really think can improve my quality of life – it’s what I really want.