Danielle Ferestad is a double major in Marketing and Integrated Strategic Communication at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She's quickly approaching graduation with a handful of internships under her belt as well as marketing work experience--but she has a lot more on her mind than the concerns of being a student and young professional.

Danielle was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in April of 2011, since then, she has been battling the disease with the continued support of her friends and family.

Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum.

After many failed medications and with no help from alternative remedies, the final option became to undergo a three-part surgery including the removal of her colon, leaving her temporarily with a pouch to do the work her body wouldn't. The latter surgeries include the rebuilding of her small intestine and stoma.

In this video series, Danielle will discuss preparation, recovery, and lifestyle changes during and after her surgeries, in hopes to connect with others going through similar experiences. As she prepares to tackle one of the largest barriers in her life, she selflessly thinks of others and what she can do to improve the world around her.

Stay tuned for a collection of videos that will portray what it's like to go through a triad of hugely demanding surgeries. Expect humor on good days and brutal honesty on bad days. Learn more about UC and relate with your personal life experiences.

Danielle's first surgery is scheduled for April 28th. If you want to reach out to her to send best wishes or to ask specific advice, contact her at danielle.ferestad8@gmail.com.