Meet Nikhil Jayswal, a remarkable 32-year-old whose journey is a testament to resilience and inspiration. Diagnosed with Crohn's disease at just 20, he has faced not only the challenges of a debilitating illness but also cancer, societal stigma, and an uphill battle for awareness. In 2021, he took a stand and founded IBD India, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing resources and support for those battling inflammatory bowel disease.

A Life Transformed by Illness

Nikhil's story began in July 2013, when he was a bright-eyed mechanical engineering student at the Delhi College of Engineering. What started as routine internship struggles soon spiraled into a health crisis with symptoms of recurrent fevers, severe stomach pain, and weight loss. After countless unsuccessful treatments, a colonoscopy revealed the shocking diagnosis: Crohn’s disease—an autoimmune disorder that attacks the intestines.

Though initially responding well to medication, his condition worsened after graduation. A devastating colonoscopy revealed the dire need for drastic measures: surgery or biologics to suppress his immune system. But with mounting health issues and crippling costs, Nikhil turned to crowdfunding, battling through treatments that often landed him in the hospital every few months.

Adapting to Life's Challenges

In 2017, Nikhil underwent a subtotal proctocolectomy, removing his large intestine and fitting an ostomy pouch. Despite improvements, adapting to this new life proved a struggle, especially regarding employment. Every time he mentioned his ostomy in job interviews, he faced discrimination. Yet, instead of surrendering, he found motivation in low-paying night jobs, pursuing higher education in aerospace engineering.

A New Battle: Cancer

In a cruel twist of fate, 2021 brought further complications: a troubling relapse of Crohn’s disease followed by a diagnosis of thyroid cancer in June 2023. With ongoing surgeries and treatment, Nikhil now juggles multiple jobs to manage bills, often relying on crowdfunding and support from others.

Planting Seeds of Hope

Recognizing the glaring lack of awareness and support around IBD in India, especially in rural areas, Nikhil founded IBD India. The organization focuses on education, financial resources, community support, and even a mental health helpline for those suffering from IBD. Through public discussions, Nikhil aims to break the stigma surrounding the disease, tackling crucial topics such as body image, employment, and mental health.

A Call for Compassion and Awareness

Nikhil believes in the power of community and continued research into IBD, emphasizing that understanding its triggers—genetic, bacterial, and environmental—is crucial. He advocates for greater compassion and inclusivity for those affected by IBD, as well as a concerted effort to raise mental health awareness among patients. "I don’t want another 20-year-old to go through what I have experienced," he asserts.

Nikhil Jayswal is not just a survivor; he’s a warrior, transforming his pain into purpose and offering hope to countless individuals confronting similar battles. With IBD India, he’s helping to change the narrative surrounding inflammatory bowel disease and empowering others to reclaim their lives.