A BIOLOGY student who has Crohn’s disease is seeking support to win a place on a two-week trip to a Fijian island to kickstart her online health advice business.

Sarah Dowd, 21, already blogs on her personal website – and would like to turn this into a business offering tailored advice service, including specialised diets and fitness, for other inflammatory bowel disease patients.

Sarah, of Newton-le-Willows, is completing a biology degree at Lancaster University but also hopes to secure a place on the Your Life Change programme, which is run by three experts – a ‘life change catalyst’, a business coach and a personal trainer.

She said: “There is a need for a platform where people with Crohn’s can share advice, and even humour. It would also have contributions from nutritionists and fitness experts.

“There isn’t anything like this, especially for younger people. Maybe because Crohn’s can be seen as an embarrassing illness – but I want to change those perceptions.

“I’m applying for the trip to Fiji where, if I am successful, I will be coached by three specialists who help you follow your dream.”

Crohn’s is a debilitating disease that causes inflammation of the intestines, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and weight loss. It often strikes young adults and cases are increasing.

The disease remains incurable, although treatment options are developing and patients often enjoy good periods of health between flare ups. At 18, Sarah had major surgery involving a large part of her bowel being removed, meaning she has had to adapt her diet and lifestyle.

After winning a Biochemical Society UK Summer studentship, Sarah spent eight weeks at Liverpool University researching the illness.

She added: “I can eat plain foods like chicken, potatoes, rice, but I can’t eat dairy, nuts or seeds and I can’t drink alcohol. So, life as a student is a little limited.”

Sarah’s mum Elizabeth, dad Steven and brother Thomas, 18, are very supportive.

She said: “My family have encouraged me to do the website. My flatmates at uni are understanding, too. The more hits my Crohn’s posts get, the greater chance I stand of getting a place in Fiji, so I’d be really grateful if people would read it.”

To read Sarah’s post ‘Ten things not to say to people with Crohn’s’, go to sarahelizadowd.blogspot.co.uk.