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In Episode 32 of Wrestling the Octopus: The IBD Patient Podcast, we meet Crohn's disease patient, Neil Barker. Neil recounts his history of living with IBD, bowel and brain cancer. His story offers an honest, deeply human look at what it means to manage a chronic illness while trying to maintain hope, identity and everyday life.

Neil reflects on the early signs of Crohn's, the long road to diagnosis, and the emotional and physical toll of living with unpredictable symptoms. He shares how IBD shaped his relationship with food, work and social life, and how he learned to advocate for himself within the healthcare system. Hear Neil's practical insights on managing gut health, coping with flare ups and finding support.

Our discussion then moves into Neil’s experience with bowel cancer, including how his IBD history influenced detection, treatment and recovery. He speaks candidly about the shock of later developing brain cancer, the resilience required to face multiple life altering diagnoses, and the importance of community when navigating long-term illness.

Whether you live with inflammatory bowel disease, support someone who does, or want to better understand the complexities of Crohn's, ulcerative colitis and cancer, this episode offers compassion, clarity and connection.

Follow Neil on Instagram @bigwoofa_agus_siarach

Follow Rachel at @bottomlineibd

Follow Nigel at @crohnoid