Bodybuilder with Crohn’s disease uses fitness to fight pain

A bodybuilder with Crohn's disease, Daniel Kelly has spoken of working out as a way to manage his condition

When he was four years old, the 28-year-old Mancunian was diagnosed with Crohn's and Osteonecrosis. He has never known any different, but says "it has led to me being who I am today". 

Kelly's early life was dominated by Crohn's disease and the pain associated with it. Throughout childhood and teenage years, he tried many different treatments including feeding tubes and steroids. A lot of time was spent bedridden with fatigue and other symptoms.

He said, "I have been through countless periods of treatment and medication throughout my life (too many to remember) - and there was a constant recurring theme to try and manage my health.

"All treatments had varying effects and for varying periods of time, regardless of specialist advice."

Kelly's steely attitude and determination often proved decisive, but the situation changed when he reached 20 years of age.

"I always managed to bounce back and avoid having an ileostomy - something I used to think would be defeat.

"I eventually had my defining flare-up at 20 years old (just as I started my second year of university) that resulted in me having an ileostomy as an involuntary emergency that saved my life."

An ileostomy is a surgical operation in which the end of the ileum (small bowel) is brought through the abdominal wall to create an opening called a stoma.

At his worst point, Daniel went down to around seven stone in weight (at 6ft 1). Despite his initial dread at having an ileostomy procedure, he remains positive. This positivity paved the way for Kelly's path into bodybuilding and fitness.

"I wouldn't have my ostomy reversed even if I could. I believe it is the defining moment in my life."

While experiencing the occasional flare-up, Kelly's Crohn’s is now more manageable. Today, fitness forms a large part of his self-medication. He deems it necessary to eat as clean as possible and exercises on a daily basis to manage his symptoms.

Kelly has always found that the endorphins he gets from working out significantly help pain management as well as improving energy levels.

Due to his success, many people suffering from similar conditions have turned to Kelly for advice.

"I also have a lot of people come to me for advice on IBD and having an ostomy.

"Even though everyone's case is different, the main thing is that I manage to inspire people and give them hope that things can eventually get better with the right attitude and perseverance."

Earlier this year, Kelly was best man at his childhood friend's wedding. Nine months ago, this friend also underwent an emergency ileostomy after being diagnosed with Crohn's.

Daniel has carried out fundraising for Crohn’s and Colitis UK, including his Dad’s golf captaincy raising money for the charity.

Crohn’s & Colitis UK is the national charity leading the battle against Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. For more information and support, visit Crohn’s & Colitis UK - crohnsandcolitis.org.uk or phone their information line 0300 222 5700.

If you - or someone you know - has made an impressive transformation with a story to tell, you could be featured on JOE's Transformation Tuesday! Just send your nominations to Alex.Roberts@JOE.co.uk