Hello everyone! First I wanted to say that reading everyone's stories/posts has really helped me feel less alone...and also realize that I shouldn't feel guilty for missing work on account of my UC.

I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis a few weeks ago. I have a mild-moderate case, so hospitalization hasn't been necessary. Just lots of going to the bathroom, seeing red, and having some cramps/bloating because I'm not digesting food like I used to.

Here's the catch though, I'm fresh out of college and working in a teaching job in Japan. I live alone in an apartment, and don't speak enough Japanese to visit the doctor by myself. I've gone to the doctor's office six times now, and each time my supervisor has had to come along with me to translate. It's not too bad, she's a nice lady, but I feel bad for dragging her through all of this.

Also, we still haven't found a medication that can make the bleeding stop completely. Right now I'm on "Pentasa" which helped at first, but then seemed to lose its effect. Will a good medication stop the bleeding altogether? The doctor hasn't been to clear on what outcome he's looking for.

Anyway, I'm pretty lonely, stressed out, and it appears that I'll continue to be sick for a while. Any support would be lovely, and I will do my best to respond in kind!