Rabbi Finds Renewed Purpose Thanks to Hackensack University Medical Centers New IBD Center

For 17 years, Crohn’s disease severely impacted Asher Millman’s everyday life. The 35-year-old physician assistant (PA) at Hackensack University Medical Center and rabbi of a large New Jersey congregation found it difficult to work, eventually taking a medical leave of absence. He was also frustrated at his inability to act as a husband and father to his seven children. 

“I felt like I was barely limping along in life. I wasn’t able to make plans or fully enjoy myself because I never knew when I would suddenly experience Crohn’s symptoms,” says Asher. 

His search for relief took him to some of the most prestigious hospitals on the East and West Coasts. He also had several surgeries, hoping to put an end to his symptoms. Then, a glimmer of hope emerged closer to home. 

He heard about Alyssa Parian, M.D. and the newly launched Center for Inflammatory Bowel Disease at Hackensack University Medical Center. Intrigued by Dr. Parian’s excellent reputation and Johns Hopkins’ training, the convenience of receiving exceptional care right in his own backyard, Asher decided to make the switch.

“I was very happy to not have to drive to New York City to get top-level care,” Asher explained.

Collaboration From Beginning to End

Asher says he made the switch to Dr. Parian just in time. Only 48 hours after meeting Dr. Parian, Asher's condition took a turn for the worse with extreme symptoms that required an emergency admission. He says Dr. Parian and the entire team at the IBD Center sprang into action.

“I just met her, barely 48 hours before, and she treated me like I was her patient for ten years,” Asher recalled. “It was a very unique experience.” 

One thing Asher says made the situation so unique was the collaboration between his doctors. After an initial meeting with colorectal surgeon Ryan Moore, M.D., Dr. Moore walked down the hall to Dr. Alyssa Parian’s office to discuss the case in person. 

“This ability for specialists to put their heads together instantly is a unique benefit of the Center, allowing them to map out a plan for complex patients like Asher before they even leave the building,” says Dr. Parian. 

Medical Mystery Solved

Dr. Parian and the team at the IBD Center were faced with a medical mystery. Asher’s severe symptoms—debilitating pain and hours spent in the bathroom—didn't line up with his previous imaging tests, which didn’t show any active inflammation. Instead of dismissing his experience, Dr. Parian trusted Asher and scheduled him for a new colonoscopy. 

The procedure revealed what imaging had previously missed: a significant area of inflammation hidden at the very end of the colon, in the rectum. This part of the body is surrounded by a network of nerves, which explains the severity of Asher’s pain and symptoms. 

For many with IBD, getting a clear diagnosis that finally explains their pain is a turning point. For Asher, it was a profound relief.

“It was like a weight was lifted off my chest,” he says. “I finally felt like I might get the relief I had been looking for.”

Temporary Solution Provides Lasting Relief

With a clear answer, the entire team, including Asher and his family, discussed the best course of action. They decided on a temporary solution designed to give his body a rest: a diverting colostomy. 

This procedure provides immediate relief from symptoms while allowing the inflamed area to heal completely. Surgeons create a small opening in the abdomen and redirect stool away from the damaged area of the colon.

With the close support of his surgeon, a specialized ostomy nurse and a dietitian, Asher’s surgery was a success. The team is now focused on his long-term healing, with the goal of reconnecting his bowel once the inflammation has resolved, truly giving him his life back.

Living With Crohn’s Disease

Asher credits the IBD Centers' unique approach and the team’s dedication with giving him his life back. Today, he is back to business, fulfilling his responsibilities as a PA, rabbi, and father with renewed vigor. He’s grateful to be able to fully engage with his community and family, something that felt impossible during the darkest days of his illness.

“I’m really busy and enjoying every minute of it,” he says.

Dr. Parian believes that those with Crohn’s disease need a network of support in order to live life to the fullest, with limited symptoms. 

“Because Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, is a complex and chronic condition affecting multiple organ systems, multidisciplinary care that includes an in-office nutritionist, mental health provider and social worker, as we do, is crucial, and can make a significant difference in disease management and patient outcomes,” she says. 

Asher’s advice for those struggling with Crohn’s disease is simple yet profound: “Find a doctor and a surgeon who are personally invested in your care. I’m so glad that I found that at the IBD Center,” he says.

Next Steps & Resources

• Meet our expert: Alyssa Parian, M.D. and Ryan Moore, M.D.
• Make an appointment online with Dr. Parian or Dr. Moore, or call 800-822-8905. 
• Find a gastroenterologist near you.
• Learn more about our Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.

The material provided through Healthier You is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.