Calendar fundraiser

My name is Simone Downie and I am 46 years old. I was diagnosed with Gastroparesis in 2005 after suffering symptoms for over a year and having numerous tests all coming back inconclusive. Finally my doctor sent me to a Gastroenterologist who basically diagnosed me without having any tests but a Gastric Emptying Study confirmed the diagnosis. Over the years the severity has gotten much worse and has also progressed to Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction as well as Esophageal motility disorder. I have spent a great deal of time in hospital on extended stays or for day surgeries over the years.

I have a PEG and a PEJ as well as a Gastric Pacemaker. Whilst I can’t tolerate enteral nutrition anymore the PEJ is helpful with getting both fluids and some medication in and the PEG helps with venting. I can eat very small amounts of certain foods orally and at this stage have managed to avoid TPN.

I decided to embark on a Gastroparesis fundraiser after feeling annoyed that our condition doesn’t get the recognition and fundraising it deserves compared to other illnesses. I was spurred on my by husband and two beautiful daughters who have been an amazing support to me on this journey of Gastroparesis. I wanted to bring awareness to the community as to what Gastroparesis even means and also bring to light that although in some cases it is an “Invisible Illness” it still impacts greatly on those that have the condition and their families.

To date I have raised just over $8,000 which has been contributed to WSU GI Motility Research Team.  I am really pleased with the result and have been spurred on to do more fundraising in the future and encourage anyone who is well enough to take up the challenge as well.

If you would like to buy a beautiful calendar in support of a cure for Gastroparesis you can email Simone at simone@simonedownie.com.au

Or visit this link for more information

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