| As many of you know, last year was a difficult year in the Sankey home. My doctor told me that because my ulcerative colitis had been severe and active for over 20 years, it was time to make a hard decision. I made an appointment with a surgeon to have my colon removed. Luckily research and other treatment options, changed this plan! My colonoscopy revealed that my colitis had changed in a positive way and that new medication would help me keep my original parts. It is through this new research that new options are available to patients and that is why this disease is SO important to me.
I've joined Team Challenge and I need your help! I will complete the 13.1-mile Wine Country Half Marathon on July 18th, 2010, to raise funds and awareness for research leading to improved treatment options and a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
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.
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. On average, people are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in their mid-30s, although the disease can occur at any age.
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 $3,800 in donations to The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America.
I AM MOTIVATED! I AM COMMITTED!! I WILL DO IT!!!
By now I hope you agree with me about the importance of this cause. Please help support me by giving generously.
|
