In this Shape article, marathoner Ali Feller explains that her Crohn’s disease got so bad she had to give up the thing she loved doing most in the world: running.

MORE: What it’s like growing up with inflammatory bowel disease

Twenty-four-year-old Feller lives to run and regularly takes part in marathons, but at one point her Crohn’s became so debilitating that her favorite passion became impossible, forcing her to turn her back on the sport for two years. Thankfully, Feller decided to enroll in a clinical trial and the mystery drug helped her turn a corner and get back into her running shoes.

She explains that having Crohn’s still affects her running, and sometimes she has to take a step back and rest up when she’s suffering from a flare. Even when she isn’t suffering from flares, taking five bathroom trips during a seven-mile run is a norm she has learned to live with.

You can read Ali’s full story over on shape.com.

MORE: Five tips to help you self-manage IBD in college

IBD News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.