Our captain fantastic

That’s not the case this week, with Nicholl leading a six-member Australian team into battle against 40 nations, including a French assault led by World Surf League star Jeremy Flores.

Then, when she hopefully returns home with a medal, it will be back to the reality of living with Crohn’s.

“I’m due for my next procedure and another increase in treatment on my return.

“My prognosis is still not great … although I’m now seeing a professor in Sydney as well as my specialist on the Gold Coast, who are working to help me regain my health.

“Although it’s a long road ahead, I am positive I’m starting to make progress.”

Such positivity is a given for Nicholl — and an inspiration for others battling Crohn’s.

“My best advice would be not to give up,” she says. “You truly don’t know what you’re capable of until you have no choice but to face your fears.

“Having a bowel disease doesn’t make you weird, weak, gross, ugly, unsexy or any less of a person. If anything, it gives you a deeper appreciation for everything around you and makes you stronger and more unique.”