MIRACLE MONDAYS – Anastasia Murphy

The story of Anastasia Murphy

At the young age of six, Anastasia Murphy was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. “I wasn’t truly aware of the lasting effects of the condition at the age of six,” said Anastasia. I remember just wanting to feel better after I was put on the medication.”

There were several visits to the emergency room that lead doctors to investigate what was happening with Anastasia. “I had a fever that got up to 104 degrees and I dropped to an unhealthy weight,” she said. “Doctors found ulcers in the intestines and esophagus as well as internal bleeding.”

Finally, Anastasia was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. “I had to learn to take pills at the age of six. My grandma hid my first dose of capsules in a spoonful of a chocolate milkshake to get me to take them!”

Now 20 years old, Anastasia has learned to manage Crohn’s. “I said I was going to look at my diagnosis as a blessing, not a disease. I truly do not know if I would be on the journey to becoming a doctor today without Crohn’s.”

Anastasia is part of Illinithon at the University of Illinois, an annual event that raised over $348,000 last year (and over $1 million dollars overall) for the kids at St. John’s Children’s Hospital. “It’s so inspiring to be a part of Illinithon! We’re lucky enough to meet so many kids that are impacted by what we do. It’s truly one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever been a part of!”

Do you have a miracle child that was treated as HSHS St. John’s Children’s Hospital? Facebook message us or email dave.newton@hshs.org and tell us your story! #miraclemondays