Kelly, I'm so sorry to read this! I didn't know you have the crohn disease, but I know people who have it, and I know life can be complicated with such a burden.

Having to deal with health problems myself, I know very well how hard it can be to get through a working day, and how bad it makes you feel when you have one sick day after another, that can be really depressing.

But I find it wonderful that you're willing to get your PhD, and I think you should take all the time you need to reach your goal.

Sometimes mothers can be so annoying! I assume she's worried about you and doesn't want you to put any more kind of pressure onto yourself, but she should better realize how much it hurts you when you think she doesn't have any faith in you. Now matter how good or bad your childhood was, parents always have the ability to hurt you most...

(((HUGS)))
Kirsten