Sharon,
i have always considered myself ”special”..because I got rid of my 12 year battle with UC and all of the meds I had to take. I have lived the last 44 years not thinking of..or exposed to the issues that some of my “compadres” have had. I thank G-d for my life every day. Learning about the issues that have avoided me and hearing stories like yours has had an impact on me. You and the other folks on this thread are the truly special people who have endured.... You folks are “special”..... I am just a lucky bystander. G-d bless you all!!!