On June 11th, I participated in the Take Steps walk for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) with my best friend and two other IBD survivors. Take Steps is the nation’s largest event dedicated to finding cures for digestive diseases. It’s a casual 2-3 mile walk to raise awareness and money for crucial research, bringing us closer to a future free from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Over 1.6 million American adults and children are affected by these diseases. While many suffer in silence, Take Steps brings this community together in a fun, energetic, and supportive atmosphere.

The opportunity to contribute to a potential cure for Crohn’s disease and to change the lives of everyone affected by this disease is invaluable. The money our team raised this year supported local patient programs, as well as important research towards a cure. My team and I look forward to participating in the walk again next year, with an even more aggressive fundraising goal. The more money we raise, the closer we get to making life more manageable for those of us who live with IBD everyday.

Until next year’s event…

Melissa