Miss Universe Australia finalist Tahlia Giumelli raises awareness for Crohn’s disease

Miss Universe Australia finalist Tahlia Giumelli, ambassador and face of Crohn’s & Colitis Australia, revealed that she did not hide her condition from her new boyfriend, Rabbitohs star Tom Burgess. The 24-year-old said that she has no qualms talking about her battle with Crohn’s disease, which she has been suffering since 2013. Burgess, a rugby player, is in fact very supportive of Giumelli.

Competing for the prestigious Miss Universe Australia title in June, Giumelli said that her illness makes her stronger and more resilient in life. Crohn’s disease involves the inflammation of the intestines, colon and rectum, which may need surgery and immediate hospitalisation. After being diagnosed, Giumelli did not hide it or made it look like taboo. Instead, she embraced it and fought back with changes in her lifestyle.

“I have little unexpected bouts here and there — it does worry me — but I want to show people there is no good excuse to stop you to do what you want to do. Not just Crohn’s but with anything,” she told news.com.au. She found out about her illness when she went on a trip to Germany and fell “really ill,” preventing her from eating and walking.

The Miss Universe hopeful said that the disease does not stop her from doing anything but instead motivates her to achieve more. In her new role as the ambassador of Crohn’s & Colitis Australia, she wants to raise awareness and educate people about Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) and Crohn's disease. In doing so, she does not want people who suffer from the disease to feel scared. “Don’t let anything stop you from doing or achieving what you want,” she said.

Giumelli hopes that medical science may one day find a cure for IBD. Until they do so, she will keep encouraging patients to live their lives to the fullest. May is considered an awareness month for IBD. The United Kingdom is also taking steps to raise awareness on the issue with various signs like “Accessible Toilets” outside restrooms advising members of the public that not all disabilities are visible.