I have begun an incredible journey with my sister Iris. We decided to join Team Challenge in order to complete the Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon to raise money and awareness for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. On July 20, we will be greeted with 13.1 miles of picturesque scenery, warm wind through the grape fields and one of the BEST half marathon finishes in the country!

My connection to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) and this half marathon are directly related to my youngest sister Iris. In 2000 when Iris was 15 years old, she was hospitalized with an unknown illness. She had progressively lost weight and become extremely weak. At the time, my family and I knew NOTHING about Inflammatory Bowel Diseases. Now, 8 years later we are very aware of the impact that these diseases have on the lives of patients who are diagnosed with them. My sister was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and has been one of a small percentage of patients who do not respond well to the treatment options. However, through all of her struggles she was able to graduate from UC San Diego last June 2007 and has worked hard through lifestyle modifications and with a variety of treatments to successfully manage her illness.

In honor of her strength I decided to join CCFA in raising funds and awareness for research leading to improved treatment options and a cure for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

In order to participate in the half marathon, I must raise $3500. Your financial support will be greatly appreciated as you help me reach my goal!!!

Thank you in advance for your love, support and good wishes.