Thank you, Zowie! Welcome to the forum. I am happy to share that I have been the engaged girl with Crohns. Whether or not my mother-in-law thinks that I am wonderful is debatable. She's a nice southern belle and I'm a yankee, but that's another story. LOL!
I work for the Anchorage School District, so I decided to sign up for the health insurance plan. I have EBMS. It may not be as widely known as Blue Cross/Blue Shield. I think benefits wise they are comparable. I have not been disappointed with my coverage. I'm a little upset with the choice of preferred providers. I am less than thrilled with my gastroenterologist, he is competent and thorough, just not very nice. The hospital of choice would also be my second choice. Providence Hospital is the preferred hospital and that is where I went for some of my scopes and procedures. I have been referred to Alaska Regional for other procedures, and I prefer that hospital. I really have nothing to complain about with the insurance choice of hospital or providers; however, I have found better service and bedside manner at the non-preferred providers.
I think it is wonderful that you decided to visit a Crohn's Disease forum to learn more about the disease and the best way to support your son and his new bride to be. Please don't be afraid of the disease. There are some scary things that you may hear and learn about, but it is a disease that can be managed, and people are often affected with it in varying degrees. Don't be afraid to ask your future daughter-in-law about her condition. I'm sure she will be pleased to discover your interest and concern.
My father-in-law passed away many years before I even met my husband, so I was dealing mainly with my mother-in-law. She understood a little about the Crohn's Disease and has asked me questions regarding it. I've had to explain to her that there are certain foods that I can no longer eat if I want to maintain digestive peace. Other than that, I think she has realized that aside from having an, "angry gut," I'm not all that different after all.
Welcome again and good luck to you and your son and future daughter in law.