Welcome. Looks like we were diagnosed around the same time. I had been sick for a little while but decided to see a Dr. when I lost 6 pounds in a week and it got to where I couldn't sit through a meal without needing to stop to use the bathroom. I took 9-12 Asacol a day and that made all the difference in the world. I don't have insurance right now, starving student, and the meds are $800 a month. I've been med free for about a year with a few small flares and 1 that put me in the hospital for 3 days. I can definately understand the daily pain but I found diet really helps keep mine at bay. I hope you find what works for you.