Wrexham: Woman bravely advocates for Crohn's Disease

Twenty-two-year-old Courtney Stubbert Pugh lives in Overton just outside of Wrexham where she works as a travel agent. 

After feeling poorly in December 2020 and being wrongly diagnosed with a water infection, Courtney began feeling worse just on the brink of the COVID-19 pandemic when NHS services were increasingly overwhelmed.

In May 2022 after being on several types of medication which didn't work, Courtney was frustrated that her symptoms were being put down to her former smoking habit. 

Courtney following a medical procedure to determine her diagnosis (Image: Courtney Stubbert Pugh)

It was only following a major surgery in which parts of her bowel were removed and countless tests later that Courtney was finally diagnosed with Crohn's Disease.

She said: "If it wasn't for my IBD nurse it could have ended much worse for me. 

"I ended up having a six-hour surgery which I have scars for taking over my stomach and it nearly resulted in me using a Stoma bag.

"I always wear a smile on my face but I carry my struggles not knowing when I may need the toilet and the pains that come with the diagnosis. I also have to have blood tests every month and have to self inject with steroids every two weeks."

Courtney tries not to let her diagnosis take away her sparkle (Image: Courtney Stubbert Pugh)

Courtney was dismissed several times by medical professionals before her symptoms were taken seriously which has prompted her to raise awareness.

She continues: "I do not think there is enough awareness due to the fact people don't know what it is or are too embarrassed to talk about their bowel habits."

Hays Travel Wrexham, Courtney's workplace, is accepting donations to go towards Crohn's and Colitis, a UK-based charity improving the lives of individuals who have been diagnosed.

The company has several prizes up for grabs in a raffle including;

• £50 Hays Travel voucher

• Lot 11 afternoon tea voucher

• Various beauty vouchers

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All donations are going by cheque to Crohn's and Colitis UK for their research into helping and supporting other patients. It will also go into funding for more stoma supplies.  

Anyone who has donated (in store donations only) by buying a raffle ticket will be entered into the draw. 

Courtney is determined to use her voice and experience to support other patients and raise crucial funds and awareness.