Tell us about yourself and what you’ve been up to.
I’m a singer-songwriter, blues guitarist, comedian and health advocate who has just released a new album, Skeleton Blues. I created Chronic, a one-man comedy show about living with IBD, and The Vegetable Plot, a nationally touring “roots musical” for kids, families and foodies.
What’s the best gig you’ve ever played?
Mine was Chronic Symphonic in 2012. That was my comedy show Chronic performed with an eight-piece band, a giant screen and a string section. There’s a DVD of it.
What’s on your playlist at the moment?
Vulfpeck, Leon Bridges, All Our Exes Live In Texas, Kendrick Lamar and Michael Jackson’s Off The Wall.
How did you become a health advocate as well as a musician and comedian?
I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease (AKA IBD) at the age of 14 and didn’t want to talk about it for 15 years. Finally I reached a point of acceptance with it and started mining my horrific experiences for comedy gold. I think the fact that I could be honest but also funny about a disease that carries so much stigma helped me reach past people’s defences and activate their empathy. I’m a proud ambassador for Crohn’s & Colitis Australia and have just come back from speaking in the US, the fourth continent I’ve spoken on as an advocate. I’m thinking of writing a book and calling it Incontinence On Four Continents (mic drop).
Do you have any advice for recently diagnosed Crohn’s patients?
Be kind to yourself. Some ridiculously famous and successful people have had IBD, from gold-medal-winning athletes to major entertainers, Charles Darwin and two US Presidents (Ike and JFK), so it doesn’t have to stop you living an amazing life or pursuing your dreams. But it is important to take the time you need to focus on your health, both mental and physical. Take an active role in managing your condition and connect with other people who have the disease and can understand what you’re going through. Crohn’s & Colitis Australia (CCA) has some really good support services, including access to an inspiring, engaged community of people in exactly the same position. Their website is the best place to go if you’ve recently been diagnosed. May is actually IBD Awareness Month, and the slogan this year is ‘Live Fearless’. I wouldn’t wish an IBD diagnosis on anyone, but it does help you activate your courage and connect with your inner badass.
