Mesha Moinirad
Content Creator, Entrepreneur & Disability Advocate
For Mesha Moinirad, known to many through his impactful social media presence as Mr ColitisCrohns, stoma surgery wasn’t an easy decision, but it was a transformative one.
After enduring over four years of drug failures to treat his inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Mesha chose surgery. “It was a decision of mine, but it didn’t come with happiness immediately,” he reflects. “Physically and mentally, overcoming it in your early twenties is a lot; the shift has been massive. My stoma has given me my life back.”
That shift, Mesha explains, was from merely existing to truly living. “Before my stoma, I felt like I was on 20% battery. Now, I can do everything I want to do.” He is, however, the first to acknowledge everyone’s unique journeys. “We all have our own experiences. The fear often lies in the lack of control. Instead of focusing on the shame, look at the freedom it gives you,” he adds.
Challenging perceptions and finding connection
In a world hesitant to speak openly about stomas, Mesha is changing the narrative. “A lot of people don’t talk about it. There’s shame around anything ‘poo-related’. That shame is fabricated by not understanding,” he explains. You need to advocate for yourself, explore beyond the textbook answers and find your own way to live fully.”
Social media became his outlet and anchor. “Connecting with others who understood what I was going through became key. Finding people with lived experience is one of the most powerful tools I’ve come across,” he says.
You need to live, not just follow
the instructions you are given in a
booklet. It’s not the end; it’s a beginning.
From survival to endurance
Now, he’s pushing boundaries. Having recently completed the Paris Marathon, he’s eyeing future endurance challenges. “It’s not about fitness goals. It’s about constantly challenging myself. Helping others through content that empowers people is what drives me,” shares Mesha.
Hope for the future
Mesha believes: “Today’s audiences are about quicker answers, relatable content and community. A 45-second video can flip someone’s perspective. That’s the power of conversation.” For anyone facing stoma surgery, Mesha’s advice is clear: “You need to live, not just follow the instructions you are given in a booklet. It’s not the end; it’s a beginning.”
