Natalie Hayden

Natalie Hayden, 39, is a former TV news anchor and reporter living in the Midwest. Her mission in life is to be an advocate for those battling inflammatory bowel disease and to show that a chronic illness doesn’t have to dull your sparkle. Natalie was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in July 2005, two months after graduating from college. After several hospitalizations, countless medications and flare ups, she underwent bowel resection surgery in August 2015.

Lights, Camera, Crohn’s covers everything from overcoming struggles to celebrating small victories throughout all parts of the patient journey from diagnosis and beyond. Natalie enjoys sharing stories about pregnancy and motherhood in hopes of comforting and empowering others. Stay tuned for weekly articles every Monday.

Along with her blog, Natalie is on the Advisory Board for IBD Moms, part of IBD Social Circle (#IBDSC), a Patient Leader for WEGO Health, and a contributor to Everyday Health, Healthy Women, the IBD Healthline app, Mamas Facing Forward, and IBD Moms. She is also an active volunteer and spokesperson for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, specifically the Mid-America Chapter. She was nominated for and won the Community Cultivator Award for the Social Health Awards as a credit to all she does to support and guide those with IBD.