You don’t have to just “live with it.”

It’s whispered about and often made light of, but as Sophie Lee will tell you, there is nothing funny about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)—a chronic medical condition characterized by often intense abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and/or diarrhea. The stigma attached to this disorder prevents many people from seeking help or sharing their problem with family, friends, and coworkers. This is unfortunate, since it is estimated that more than 60 million Americans suffer from this devastating illness. Sadly, even those who do seek medical help often find themselves up against ignorant doctors and even those who believe that IBS is a psychological condition.

Sophie’s Story: My 20-Year Battle with Irritable Bowel Syndrome chronicles a brave young woman’s fight against the IBS “monster,” offering valuable insights on coping with, and even controlling, the symptoms. Partly an offering of hope to other IBS sufferers and partly her way of fighting back against those who told her that IBS is all in her head, this no-holds-barred narrative discusses the many psychological, physical, and social effects of living with this disease. Moreover, Sophie writes about which conventional and alternative treatments were most effective for her and how the right diet made a difference, as well as her successful, personal formula to conquer IBS.

Let Sophie’s Story be your road map to finding your own personal formula for relief. With a special chapter on IBS treatments Sophie has tried—and her top tips for sufferers—you’ll come away with an action-packed game plan . . . and a lot to discuss with your doctor. Relief is possible.