Family and Friends —
As many of you know, I've struggled with Crohn's disease* since my early teenage years. For me, that translates to over 75 hospitalizations, nearly 20 surgeries (often on an emergency basis), a highly-restricted diet and an ongoing impact on my everyday live. And unfortunately I'm not the only one. It is estimated that as many as 1.4 million Americans have either Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis.
The good news is that we are making progress against these diseases, breakthrough discoveries have begun to occur and suddenly finding a cure is a very real possibility. As CCFA** recently summed it up:
“We are now witnessing astonishing advances in the understanding of these devastating diseases that inflict such a heavy burden on thousands of families. ... The opportunities have never been greater for transforming the future of over 1.4 million Americans and future generations with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis by investing in cutting-edge research.”
It's time for us to act to ensure that future kids and adults don't have to suffer from IBD.
So I've launched $3K in 3 Weeks.
What is $3K in 3 Weeks? On Sunday, December 6, 2009, I ran the 13.1-mile Las Vegas Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon. From then through the the final fundraising date of January 5, 2010, I will work to raise awareness and at least $3,000 for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis — hence $3K in 3 Weeks.
By now I hope you agree with me about the importance of this cause. Together, we can make a difference! Please help support me by giving generously. From now through January 5, you can still make a donation — just use the box in the right hand column.
And meantime, watch my blog for updates on $3K in 3 Weeks and my half marathon training, as well as news and information about the progress being made against Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Thanks in advance for your support!
*Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases, or IBD. It is estimated that as many as 1.4 million Americans have IBD; however, many more suffer in silence due to potential embarrassment and alienation. Crohn's disease may occur in people of all ages, but it is primarily a disease of adolescents and young adults, affecting mainly those between 15 and 35. However, Crohn's disease can also occur in people who are 70 or older and in young children as well. In fact, 10 percent of those affected — or an estimated 100,000 — are youngsters under the age of 18. On average, people are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in their mid-30s, although the disease can occur at any age.
**CCFA — the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America — is the number one resource for information about, research into, and patient and family support for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. You can find CCFA on the web at: ccfa.org
