Here's what Motivates Us

Here is the July Issue of CCFA'S News Letter. Letter from Rick Geswell, CCFA President Rick Geswell, CCFA President

Every once in a while, a note comes across my desk – like this one from St. John's Lutheran preschool class – that truly touches my heart. I wanted to share it with you and express my gratitude for all that you do as part of CCFA. Every supporter – no matter how young – makes a difference in our search for cures. Whether you donate, volunteer, walk, run, or just talk to people about IBD and your experiences – you are an integral part of CCFA, and I am proud to call myself a part of this community. Student-Athlete Exemplifies True Sportsmanship David Lerner A little over a year ago, 23-year-old David Lerner lived a healthy, active life like any typical college student. The Florida native was heading into his senior year as a punter for the University of Florida Gators when he began experiencing excruciating abdominal pains. He thought they were nothing more than a bad reaction to his poor diet, but just five days later, Lerner learned he had Crohn's disease. "It was a real blindside. I never really had anything wrong in my life," said Lerner. "To hear you have this disease and there is no known cure for it at this time... That was very difficult for me to grasp and handle." Read this inspiring story on our new website! Read More Post, Tweet and Share with CCFA Whether you are a patient, a care provider, or a family member or friend of someone who suffers from IBD, joining our social networks is a fun and easy way to stay connected with the members of our community: Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter Share the things you love with us on Pinterest We love to share inspirational stories, research updates, and ways you can connect with the broader IBD community of patients, care providers, and medical professionals. Join us today! Inspire Others with Your Great Comebacks® Story Great Comebacks Your story can inspire others! Our Team Challenge partner ConvaTec wants you to inspire others this summer by sharing your personal story with the Great Comebacks® Program. For 27 years, the Program has recognized individuals who are leading full and productive lives following ostomy surgery. Submit your own story of triumph over IBD or write about someone who has sparked a positive change in you. The deadline to send a story to Great Comebacks® is August 1, so click here to get started today!

Have you seen CCFA'S New website

In the June Issue of CCFA the Foundation revealed their new website. I am so EXCITED about the new website.

Letter from Rick Geswell, CCFA President Rick Geswell, CCFA President We are excited to announce the launch of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America's new website. Our dedicated team has created a truly user-friendly, interactive environment that serves our patients, caregivers, and medical professionals with invaluable information regarding IBD and the progress we are making towards finding cures. When you visit, you'll find an extensive resources library, a newly updated physician directory, and up-to-date news on research and clinical trials. I hope you will explore our new website, and fill out a short survey to tell us what you think! Here is the link to the new website. http://www.ccfa.org/, Giving a Voice to IBD: Katherine's Story Katherine Raderstorf When Katherine Raderstorf was diagnosed, she was one of many patients reluctant to discuss her disease. But when she realized her voice could make a difference in the lives of other young patients and their parents, she joined CCFA's National Youth Leadership Council and became a tireless advocate, raising awareness and funds to find a cure for IBD. Last month, Katherine participated in CCFA's biggest advocacy event of the year, Day on the Hill in Washington, DC. "I want to keep spreading awareness about these diseases," says Katherine. "Awareness leads to understanding." Read her story here. Read More Short Bowel Syndrome and Crohn's Disease CCFA has compiled a new fact sheet to answer any questions you might have on short bowel syndrome, also known as SBS. This disorder affects people who have had large portions of their small intestine surgically removed as a result of a digestive illness, such as Crohn's disease. Patients with SBS can experience a variety of symptoms related to their body's inability to absorb enough nutrients, fluids, electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals from the food they eat. To learn more about short bowel syndrome, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments – download our latest brochure.