Hello Holly and welcome to the forum,
You will find much information and support hear from those who deal with IBD as well as those who support loved ones with IBD.
Sorry to hear about your child's new diagnosis. I started taking 6-mp (similar to azathioprine) a year ago. I too was afraid of the side effects. Fortunately I have had no issues to date with this medication.
The important thing with this is to keep doctor appointments and get the necessary routine blood work done to check for liver and pancreas issues. On the plus side this isn't a tapering medication so if the doctor feels that she needs to stop immediately it is possible to do so. The likelihood of cancer on this medication while possible is slim. IBD patients take far less of a dose of this medications than most others who use this as a treatment for other unrelated conditions. I can provide some more info/research for you later when I have the time to do so if you like.
As far as daily maintenance, I make sure I am a bit more cautious around sick individuals (wash my hands), get rest and use sunblock as the skin may become more sensitive while on this medication as well. I already bruise easily, I feel I bruise a bit more from the medication but nothing at an alarming state.
I have heard others on here mention that many of their more severe symptoms, if they had any, reversed after taking the medication. More common symptoms that people mention about these types of immunosuppressors on here include nausea and fatigue.
At the end of the day you have to weigh the risks vs. the benefits. To me the benefits were greater: a shot at getting better and fewer side effects overall than most other medications doctors use for IBD and I take comfort in the fact that I am carefully monitored for potentially severe issues.
I encourage you to take a look around and search the forum for more information.
We have a Wiki page that offers some general information about certain topics:
http://www.crohnsforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=56
We also have a Parents of Children with IBD section that you can read through and post in as well for information and support:
http://www.crohnsforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=49
Wishing your daughter the best and I hope that she starts to feel better very soon :hug:
