Offer your seat and make a world of difference 

Sophie’s Story

Sophie was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease when she was just 11 years old. As well as living daily with the debilitating symptoms of urgency to use the toilet, severe pain and chronic fatigue – Sophie knows what it feels like to be ignored on public transport, right when you need help the most.

“I’ve had difficulty travelling on the tube during rush hour. I got on a packed tube and I was doubled over in pain because my Crohn’s was flaring. I was sweating and out of breath because of the pain – but no-one offered to help me, everyone was in their own world with their heads down, headphones on. I did catch the attention of a man who was sat down, and I asked if I could have his seat, but he just looked away and ignored me. Other people must have heard me, but no-one else offered me their seat. I was in so much pain that I was forced to sit on the tube floor. I ended up getting trampled on as people hopped on and off at each stop.”

“When things like this happen it knocks your confidence, it makes you think twice about travelling. I can be nervous about getting out, especially for work. It’s everyone’s journey and everyone should feel comfortable and confident on their day to day trips.” 

“It’s everyone’s journey is a super important campaign. It is a step forward to help those suffering with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis feel confident in society. By offering your seat, you may make a world of difference to someone who is suffering in silence.”

Crohn’s & Colitis UK knows that not every disability is visible – “we’re campaigning to change public perceptions of disabilities by raising awareness about Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis and changing accessible toilet signage. It’s easy to make a difference, you can get involved today.”