Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colits (along with many other digestive diseases) are commonly kept "hush-hush". People may find them embarassing, degrading, unattractive, or even icky! I, however, wanted to embrase my opportunity to learn from this disease and my surgeries, and to educate people on these diseases to create more awareness. When I was diagnosed, I had never heard of UC and I had to do a lot of research. Adam always says that he had never heard of it either, and then as soon as he learned I had it, he started meeting all kinds of people with those diseases that would finally open up after they heard about my story. I'm proud to be the reason they decided to come out of the dark and into the light of awareness!
There are many great websites out there where you can learn about these diseases, talk to people with the same problems, and get involved in raising funds to help research. Some of my favorite websites are
1) www.livingwithuc.com
2) www.ccfa.org
3) www.uncoverostomy.org
Uncover Ostomy is especially near and dear to my heart, because I did have a temporary ostomy bag. As a woman, you tend to feel shy, embarassed, and the exact opposite of the sexy desirable beauty that every woman wants to be. However, a woman by the name of Jessica Grossman (a young beautiful woman!) decided to fight back! She wanted to embrase her permanent ostomy, and show off how beautiful and sexy and fun you can still be with the "poop bag"! She is an incredible inspiration!
I recently learned of a fundraiser called "Take Steps Be Heard for Crohn's and Colitis". It is a group walk (nothing too strenuous!) to raise money and awareness for these types of diseases. People with "crappy poopers" from all over the place get together, walk, talk, take potty breaks, and share stories all while bringing us closer to more information and even cures! Needless to say, I was SO excited to be a part of this event! There is one in Milwaukee Wisconsin called "Take Steps Milwaukee". My mother, myself, and Adam formed a team called "No Colon and Still Rollin" and plan to grow our team to a few more people! It's on June 24th, 2012 and we hope to exceed our goal of raising $1,500 by then!
The link to our page is:
PLEASE take a few moments to visit our page. Feel free to donate, or even join our team! If you would like to, you can even form your own team! We'll be making shirts, and dogs are allowed to walk with us!
Ok, I've typed for too long-I must take a potty break! ;)
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