Emma Riemersma

Magnificent Magnolia- Our family journey

Two years ago, our vibrant, full-of-life daughter—now 11—was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, and in what felt like an instant, our world turned upside down. One day she was this radiant, bubbly spark of energy; the next, she was unwell, quiet, and heartbreakingly sad. Watching her go through that was devastating. Crohn’s is a complex, unpredictable illness, and finding the right treatment has been an ongoing journey. There’s still so much to learn, and so much more we need to uncover through research.

Some days are filled with light—others, with struggle. Crohn’s is an invisible illness, and while most people see a smiling, sparkling girl with a gleam in her eye, they don’t see the fatigue, the discomfort, the hospital stays, or the endless stream of medical appointments. They don’t see the quiet courage it takes just to get through a school day or show up with a smile.

In the beginning, the grief was overwhelming. You mourn the ease, the carefree adventures, the simple childhood you imagined for your child. But two years in, we’ve found our rhythm. We’ve learned to move with the waves rather than against them. And thanks to ongoing advances in medicine and technology, I’m hopeful—truly hopeful—that by the time she’s in her twenties, the landscape of treatment will be vastly improved.

Advocating for awareness and research through the Australian Crohn’s & Colitis Association has become a purpose-driven passion for our family. It helps us turn pain into action and gives us a voice in a space that still needs so much more understanding and attention.

This journey has been clarifying. It’s shown us who really stands beside us—the friends who show up, love fiercely, and offer support without needing to be asked. It’s also made me deeply grateful for the work I do. My career brings me creativity and fulfillment, but just as importantly, it gives me the flexibility to be present—for sick days at home, long days in hospital, and everything in between.

Life has handed us unexpected challenges—but it’s also opened our hearts wider than we thought possible. I feel incredibly blessed to walk this path with my husband, Zach. Together, as a family, we hold each other through the hard days, celebrate every beautiful one, and carry hope with us always—for brighter days ahead.