Charlotte Rensberger

When I sat down to write this biography it occurred to me that I was diagnosed with IBD over 2 decades ago, and that was very sobering. I began experiencing bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fatigue as a teen, and due to fear, I hid the symptoms from my parents. By the time my parents found out about my symptoms, and we began the diagnostic process, the inflammation was so advanced, and treatment options at the time so limited that I was unable to achieve medical remission. So less than a year after my diagnosis, initially with UC, I had my colectomy. I had a j-pouch and a temporary ileostomy and the following year, was reconnected. I finished high school and pivoted from a degree in criminal justice to one in nursing. I began nursing school at a local community college in Battle Creek, Michigan. During this time, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and started medical therapy. I completed my nursing degree and started to work at Bronson- quickly finding my home in Pediatrics. I fell in love (my Cliffy), got married (will be 19 years this year), and started my family (we have a 14y and 17y old). I went back to school for my BSN, then my MSN, and then another MSN to work as a Nurse Practitioner. I love working as an APRN taking care of kids. In 2013- my j-pouch began to fail, and my Crohn’s flared, and I became extremely ill. And in 2015, after months of unrelenting illness, I had a surgical excision of my j-pouch and a permanent ileostomy created at the University of Chicago. The recovery was tough, but once I had recovered, I experienced a new feeling of empowerment that I had not felt before. I became a certified patient coach, helping patients with ostomies learn about life with an ostomy. I started speaking at conferences and support groups about my diagnostic journey, and experience as a patient, and how that has shaped the way I provide care. Not all patients feel comfortable sharing their story and asking questions, so by speaking out myself, I am hopeful that the information I share answers their questions without them having to ask.  

Two years ago, I was offered a job to work in Pediatric Gastroenterology, my dream job, and I jumped at the opportunity! I work in a busy practice; with the most caring and compassionate providers I have ever encountered. In taking this position, I have been able to do more with patient advocacy, participate in patient advocacy events like DDNC and the Crohn’s and Colitis Day on the Hill, working with the ImproveCareNow, and partnering with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation to do what I can to help improve the care of patients right here in our own community. It’s events like the walk, and the money raised that allow us to create and maintain the amazing programs we have and do the magnificent work we do to help patients and their families. Thank you for your support.