Harvey Howarth's Journey: From Colitis Diagnosis to Marathon Training
Episode Overview
Harvey Howarth shares his journey with colitis from diagnosis to treatment. The impact of chronic illness on Harvey's athletic career. Training for the Manchester Marathon to raise awareness for Crohn's and Colitis UK. The role of diet, mental health, and support groups in managing chronic illness. Harvey's experiences with surgery and finding effective treatments.
All of what you go through in life does make you a stronger person.
Ever wondered how a chronic illness can shape someone's life and fuel their determination? This episode of 'The Hirschsprung’s Hour' with Tom Richard features the incredible journey of Harvey Howarth, known as Hav and Health on Instagram. Harvey shares his story of living with colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, from his initial symptoms in 2016 to his current training for the Manchester Marathon.
His journey is filled with ups and downs, from dealing with severe weight loss and debilitating symptoms to finding the right medication and undergoing surgery. Harvey's candid recounting of his experiences provides a raw and inspiring look at how he's managed to stay positive and active despite the challenges. You'll hear about Harvey's athletic background, including his national-level biathlon achievements, and how colitis impacted his life.
He dives into the emotional and physical toll of the disease, the struggle to find effective treatments, and the eventual need for surgery. The episode also covers Harvey's efforts to raise awareness and funds for Crohn's and Colitis UK through his marathon training. Tom and Harvey discuss the importance of diet, mental health, and the support from medical professionals and online communities. Harvey's story is a testament to resilience and the power of staying informed about one's condition.
He emphasises that knowledge is crucial for managing expectations and navigating the complexities of chronic illness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone dealing with a chronic illness or supporting someone who is. Harvey's journey offers hope, practical advice, and a reminder that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Don't miss out on this heartfelt conversation that blends humour, honesty, and inspiration.
Tune in to learn how Harvey's experience can provide valuable insights and encouragement for your own journey.