Team Challenge:From Pearl Jam to IBD Activist

Here is a Story from Mike McCready who was lead guitarist of the 90's hit band Pearl Jam. As lead guitarist for Pearl Jam, Mike McCready is truly a rock star. However, as an IBD patient, he has days where he can barely get out of bed, let alone think about performing in front of sold out crowds. Mike was 21-years-old when he was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). He had just moved to Los Angeles hoping to make it big with his band, Shadow, when he began experiencing debilitating stomach pain and urgency. Over the past three decades, Mike has been extremely open about his disease journey. It hasn’t been easy- he’s had accidents during performances, been on numerous medications, coped with the stress of traveling, and much more. But throughout it all, he found one constant- the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Mike has been a national spokesperson for the Foundation for years, hosting annual fundraisers, and sharing his story through the media. Mike is truly an inspiration for all patients living with these debilitating digestive diseases, and proof that having IBD doesn’t have to prevent you from achieving your dreams. He and his wife Ashley have participated in Team Challenge several times, including this past summer at the Napa-to-Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon. Mike was invited to share his story as our honored speaker at the Inspirational pasta party the night before the big race. Check out his truly inspiring speech. Mike McCready of Pearl Jam speaks about life with IBD