Patient Success Stories

Luke’s journey with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) was marked by years of uncertainty and hardship. But what began as a quiet struggle transformed into a story of resilience, healing, and leadership—thanks to the power of academic medicine and the unwavering support of UC Health.

• Luke endured years of misdiagnosed IBD, facing relentless symptoms that stole his energy, time, and sense of hope.
• Everything changed when he came to UC Health, where a unified team took the time to truly understand his needs and craft a care plan tailored just for him.
• Today, Luke is thriving—reclaiming his life, advocating for others, and inspiring hope through his story.

Luke shares, “UC Health didn’t just help me manage IBD—they gave me my life back.”

Living in Survival Mode: A Hidden Battle with IBD

For years, Luke Zerkle, a dedicated teacher, lived a hidden battle with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Misdiagnosed and undertreated, his condition worsened. He missed nearly 90 days of school in one year and was drained.

“I was in survival mode,” Luke recalls. “I was exhausted—physically, mentally, emotionally.”

A Turning Point: Choosing Boundless Care

Everything changed when Luke made the choice to seek care at UC Health.
What he found wasn’t just a treatment—it was a team. A multidisciplinary group of experts came together to support every aspect of his health and life.

“Coming to UC Health felt like a breath of fresh air,” Luke says. “They weren’t just treating my symptoms. They were trying to understand me— what I needed, what I was going through, and how to help me reclaim my life.”

UC Health Digestive Diseases providers' approach to IBD care is grounded in the power of academic medicine. With experts in gastroenterology, psychology, and nutrition working side by side, Luke received personalized, cutting-edge care guided by the latest research.

 “Our team takes the time to understand the full picture—physically and emotionally—so we can design treatment plans that truly work for the patient’s life,” says John Shinn, CNP.

His treatment included adjusted medications, consideration of surgical options, and deep emotional support—a plan designed for Luke’s goals, not just his diagnosis.

"We recognize that truly supporting our IBD patients requires an intentional and integrated approach — one that addresses not only the physical symptoms of chronic illness, but also the emotional and personal challenges it brings. Inflammatory bowel diseases influence almost every aspect of a person’s life. Our approach reflects a commitment to holistic, respectful, and person-centered care," says Dr. Megan Rock, PsyD.

A New Chapter: Thriving and Leading

The change has been dramatic. “I feel better now than I have in more than 10 years,” Luke says. “This year, I’ve barely missed school. I’m running again. I’m more present for my family and my students.”

UC Health helped Luke do more than manage his IBD—they helped him take back his life.

 “Luke's progress is a testament to what’s possible when patients have access to integrated, forward-thinking care from an academic health system,” says Dr. Susan Kais, MD.

Now, Luke gives back. He advocates for IBD awareness, raises funds for patient support, and walks beside his daughter Lucy, diagnosed with early-onset IBD at age four. Their family lives by a shared motto: Choose to be brave.

“I want people to know there’s hope,” Luke says. “You don’t have to live in pain. You don’t have to settle. UC Health has the care, the expertise, and the heart to help you heal.”

If you or someone you love is experiencing digestive issues, talk to your primary care provider about a referral to UC Health Digestive Diseases. Beginning the process early helps ensure timely access to the expert, personalized care you deserve.