“The more we talk about these issues, the easier it becomes for those to be more open about managing their conditions. It also helps educate others on how to support and what can be done to help.” 

Becks has been with THG for over a decade, transitioning to subscriptions five years ago. She now leads Global Operations for LOOKFANTASTIC Beauty Box and Glossybox, and is a committed member of the Accessibility Champions Network, promoting workplace accessibility.

Besides the usual work-related responsibilities, Becks has navigated the challenges of Ulcerative Colitis since her diagnosis at 18. This chronic condition adds an extra layer of complexity to her professional life, one which isn’t always visible. Discover how she balances her personal and professional worlds, and how her Instagram following of over 30,000 has brought visibility to the unseen.  

Can you share your journey to being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis? How did you initially realise something was wrong? 

Becks: I was diagnosed when I was 18 years old, I went to Nando’s and unfortunately got food poisoning! I didn’t get better for months, I lost lots of weight, had blood in my stool and went to the toilet around 10-15 times a day (this did increase over time). If it wasn’t for my mum at the time, I think it would have taken longer to get diagnosed but she supported and advocated for me. It wasn’t until I had further investigations via camera that it was confirmed I had Ulcerative Colitis.   

How does Ulcerative Colitis affect your daily life, both personally and professionally? 

Becks: Before I had my stoma, my daily life was heavily affected. College was tough as I was in and out of the hospital, but I managed to pass! Post-college, it was hard to hold a job; I had to run to the toilet every 10 minutes, sometimes had accidents, and often needed to go home. I had to plan my days around toilet access.  

For the first two years after diagnosis, I was mostly at home or in the hospital. At 20, I had surgery for an ileostomy, which relieved many symptoms. However, accepting this new part of me was a whole new challenge, both physically and mentally. I was told I couldn’t have children, but now I have a little miracle named Ezra, who is 9. I was also told I might not want to wear a bikini again and that dating would be harder (though my boyfriend, now husband, stood by me every step of the way). We also had to monitor my rectum closely to prevent it from turning cancerous.   

Four years later, I became pregnant but developed Pyoderma Gangrenosum, a chronic skin condition which causes painful ulcers, which I battled for another four years. Eventually, I opted for surgery to remove my rectum, make my bag permanent, and move my stoma. This worked, and my PG healed, leaving me with a scar that looks like a cherry blossom or a dragon! However, I now face complications with my back end not healing and am undergoing investigations for plastic surgery.  

Throughout my career at THG, I’ve worked with a stoma. It’s been tough, but I’ve made it my mission not to let it impact my career. Despite the challenges, I wanted to progress and thrive in this high-paced environment. I’m proud of where I am, considering the complications I have faced and continue to face. 

What are some of the biggest challenges you face managing your condition at work? 

Becks: Keeping my emotions under control on a bad day with pain and just showing up can be tough. Fatigue hits hard, making it challenging to keep pace. But I rise to the challenge, hoping it doesn’t show to others, especially those close to me. Some still don’t know I have a stoma and an open wound, and they’re shocked when they find out. So, I must be doing something right and I remind myself of that when I find myself struggling.  

What strategies or tools have you found most helpful in managing your symptoms while maintaining your work responsibilities?   

Becks: This condition has taken so much from me that I work hard to ensure it doesn’t impact my daily life more than necessary. While it’s not always great to push through, I keep moving forward and admit when I need a rest day sometimes. It’s about knowing it’s okay to stop, slow down, and listen to your body. The world keeps turning, and it’s okay to get back up and try again the next day.  

How do you balance your health needs with your professional responsibilities?    

Becks: Balancing professional responsibilities can be tough. Some days I feel I can’t face some of the complications thrown my way, but I try to remind myself to breathe and do what I can to the best of my ability that day. Before hospital appointments, I complete my tasks so I can focus fully on the appointment without worrying about unfinished work. I find this super important as it allows me to focus and take everything in at my appointment. In the past I haven’t finished a task, and I sit and think about what I’m coming back to, and it isn’t productive!   

Why should there be more awareness of chronic illness in the workplace, and how can we ensure employees feel comfortable being open about it?   

Becks: It’s easy to hide your pain and daily struggles, but it’s okay to admit you’re struggling. The taboo around some conditions makes it hard for people to open up due to embarrassment, impacting mental and physical health. The more we talk about these issues, the easier it becomes for those to be more open about managing their conditions. It also helps educate others on how to support and what can be done to help.  

How do you think the growth of your Instagram page @thebaglifeofbeck helped share your story and amplify the conversation around Ulcerative Colitis and chronic illness? 

Becks: I started using Instagram as a diary when I was 20 and had my stoma. There was nothing for me to refer to, and I was told only older people have stomas. I felt so alone and just needed to see someone like me thriving with a stoma. So, I created my account to be the role model I once needed. Through this, I’ve raised awareness, helped others, and encouraged brands to be more inclusive. It’s opened life-changing opportunities and created significant awareness. The progress today compared to 13 years ago is incredible, and I’m proud to be part of it.  

Why is it important to have a community like the Accessibility Network in the workplace? 

Becks: I always say, no matter how supportive your loved ones are, there’s nothing like being in a room full of people who just ‘get it.’ It’s empowering and comforting to know you’re not alone. I’m hopeful that creating a space for people with chronic illnesses and disabilities at THG will help them feel less alone, share their experiences, make friends, and build a support network for those tough days.  

What are your hopes for the future of the Accessibility Network and its impact on employees with chronic illnesses?   

Becks: I’m hoping it helps educate and support others in understanding how to assist colleagues, friends, and family when needed. Navigating this journey is tough, especially with the added stress of work and job security during hospital stays or surgeries. I hope it will relieve some of that stress and worry. We must start somewhere, and the network is a great place to connect with others who have similar experiences and to push conversations forward.