As the world holds on with hope and adapts to its new way of living, we wanted to keep our fires burning for the IBD community. It’s a time to pull together and support each other through this testing time, as we seek immunity from this pandemic. Stay safe, stay creative! Here is our latest installment of “Me & IBD” with the wonderful Gina Huber (Pre Covid 19 lockdown) Enjoy!
Hi Gina, welcome to “Me &IBD”, thanks for being a part of this. For those who don’t already follow you on social media, or know about your relationship with IBD we wanted to get the lowdown.
Where in this crazy world are you located?
Hi GCASFM, I live near Munich, Bavaria Germany.
What can you see from the window?
From my window I see the beautiful river Loisach. I enjoy living in a small, rural town.
Growing up/education?
I have graduated in psychology, as well as 3 trainings. Carpenter, hairdresser and industrial clerk.
What is your day daily routine? Job etc.
Currently I work as an industrial clerk and part-time model.
IBD Life -
How old were you when were you diagnosed with IBD?
21
What were your first thoughts when the diagnosis was given?
I was completely overwhelmed with the diagnosis. In addition, the diagnosis was made during an emergency surgery, so that I actually had no time to deal with the diagnosis.
What medication have you been taking since diagnosis?
I have taken various cortisones, as well as medication for my gall. Immunosuppressive drugs like Humira or Remicade I have strictly refused, although they have been recommended to me by doctors.
Have you had to undergo any surgeries for your condition?
I had five surgeries. In the first surgery my ruptured small intestine was removed, I got a stoma. After 6 months the stoma was moved back. Afterwards my abdominal wall was torn, I had several scar operations and some surgeries to remove adhesions between my organs.
Do you have a good designated IBD team at your hospital?
Unfortunately not. At the moment I am again looking for a good specialist. Unfortunately, I often feel not taken seriously. :(
What type of adjustments have you had to make to your diet since being diagnosed?
My diet is low-fodmap, lactose-free, low histamine and wheat-free.
Is there anything you have adapted to you routine to cope with your condition?
For over a year I have been drinking my personal golden milk mixture every morning to counteract inflammation and increase my well-being.
Health and fitness - is there any physical activities you take part in that you feel help your symptoms?
Since strength training is unfortunately not good for me, I switched to yoga and move around a lot in the fresh air.
How does it affect your family and friends? Are you well supported?
My family supports me incredibly well. My current partner is very understanding and caring. My previous partners unfortunately were not. However, it is also a lot to ask.
Has social media been a good thing or bad thing for you dealing with your condition?
Social media, especially Instagram, is a very good platform for me to get attention to our disease. It is important to create acceptance, especially because these diseases are not visible. For example, I organize meetings for affected people and I am an ambassador for a German IBD foundation.
Do you have any advice for someone who has recently been diagnosed with IBD?
Accept the disease, don't fight it. Find friends, other affected people to share your thoughts. You are not alone!
Modelling life -
Thanks to Instagram we found your account, and see you're a very accomplished model. How long have you been doing this?
I have worked as a model since 2011.
How would you describe the modelling you pursue?
Vintage loving, old fashioned modelling. I only work with photographers and clients that I also like. This way I realize my ideas and my creativity.
Does modelling give you a great deal of confidence, especially when dealing with your IBD?
Modeling has helped me a lot to accept and love myself again. Especially because my figure has suffered from the many medications, my stomach and my soul are very scarred. With my photos I would like to encourage other affected people. You are beautiful, especially because of the scars!
Have you been featured in any publications for your modelling?
Yes, I've been in some smaller magazines and recently I had my first cover story. I was also allowed to play in a music video (Kitty in a Casket - Cold Black Heart).
How does IBD impact your career?
I always point out that I have IBD. That I am not as resilient as other models. On the other hand I get so much encouragement from other people who are affected because of my photos.
You have some amazing tattoos, which is your favourite? And who is your go to tattooist?
I like all my tattoos and there are more to come ;) My absolute favourite artist is Wasi from the "bayerische Hoftätowiererei" in Munich. I love traditional old school tattoos.
You're a very creative person; do you take part in any other creative activities besides modelling?
I like painting very much and play the Styrian accordion. Music is besides the photos my way to express myself and to switch off.
Do you have any assignments or projects coming up in the future?
In the future I will work more closely with the German IBD Foundation “Lila Hoffnung” and look forward to many exciting projects. Furthermore I am always open for inquiries for projects.
Thanks so much Gina, all the best for a bright future.
I say thank you and also wish you all the best! <3
You can check out Gina’s social feed via Instagram and via Facebook.
If you’d like to feature on “Me & IBD” drop us an email via the GET IN TOUCH button at the bottom of the page.
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Words: Gina Huber, Matt Strutt
Images: Gina, Marvin Jensen, Tonweber Digiart Photography Video: Kitty In A Casket
Contributors: André Leitão
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