The facts: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Crohn's disease is a chronic (ongoing) disorder that causes inflammation of the digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although it can involve any area of the GI tract, it most commonly affects the small intestine and/or colon. Ulcerative colitis on the other hand, affects only the colon. There are no areas of normal intestine between the areas of diseased intestine. In contrast, such so-called "skip" areas may occur in Crohn's disease. Ulcerative colitis affects only the innermost lining of the colon, whereas Crohn's disease can affect the entire thickness of the bowel wall.

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.

Why? Most of you already know that I have completed a marathon this year and am currently training for another in October. Maybe you are thinking, "Only a half marathon this time?" Hey! I counter with this: There is nothing "half way" about running 13.1 miles. Plus, as a nationwide group Team Challenge raised over 2.2 million dollars for the Napa to Sonoma race and I can't wait to do my part for the team in Vegas! Together, we can make a difference! As a member of Team Challenge, I have a coach, a training program, and teammates to support me. I have committed to a training schedule with additional trainings with my team on the weekends, and I’ve promised to raise $2500 in donations to The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. That's only 50 people donating $50!!! I AM MOTIVATED! I AM COMMITTED!! I WILL DO IT!

So are you with me? If you are, please help support me by donating. Even if it's a couple of dollars it will be much appreciated. How about a donation of $13.10? Over the next three months I'll be planning events with some of my fabulous friends to fundraise in many creative ways so I'll keep you all updated on other ways you can help. Thank you so much for all your support!