Gabi's Story (03:47)

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When she was 12, Gabi Thomas developed stomach pain and diarrhea after meals and lost weight. After a physical exam and colonoscopy, she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease.

Understanding Crohn's Disease (04:04)

Inflammatory bowel disease occurs when the immune system cannot cope with stressors of food digestion. It is not an autoimmune disorder; causes are unknown. Steroids and the monoclonal antibody Remicade were ineffective for Gabi.

Deteriorating with Crohn's Disease (02:13)

Gabi's diarrhea progressed; she became malnourished and dehydrated. She was hospitalized and prescribed TPN to rehabilitate her bowel before surgery.

Medical Innovations: Biologic Therapy (01:37)

Learn about new antibodies targeting the body's inflammatory substances produced in Crohn's disease.

Surgery for Crohn's Disease (07:09)

Doctors suggested a colectomy for Gabi; learn about surgical options. After her operation, she became infected and developed sepsis. Panelists believe her malnourished state complicated the healing process.

Living with Crohn's Disease (04:42)

Gabi talks about healing after her colectomy. She attended a camp for young people with her condition and formed a support network. She has had two colectomies reversed and eliminated meat and dairy from her diet.

Advice for Crohn's Disease Patients (01:10)

Gabi recommends people educate themselves and recognize that each case is individual and may respond differently to treatment.

Credits: Crohn's Disease—Second Opinion (01:17)

Credits: Crohn's Disease—Second Opinion