Honorees

What is an Honoree?

An Honoree is someone who provides inspiration to our athletes throughout the training and fundraising period. Honorees serve as symbols of strength and motivation, support and determination. An Honoree is someone who is currently is being treated for Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Each of our TEAM CHALLENGE participants is matched up with an Honoree. Honorees have the unique opportunity to connect with individuals who have committed themselves to raising funds for the fight against Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. They will share their strength and courage with participants who are training to complete their endurance event.

When participants join TEAM CHALLENGE, they commit to many months of training and fundraising before completing a half marathon. They are not only motivated by their own personal fitness goals, but are truly inspired by the bravery and fortitude of each Honoree.

MEET OUR HONOREE!

Emma Silverman                        

Hi.  My name is Emma.  I am 14 years old and in the 8^th grade in Austin, Texas.  I play on my school’s undefeated basketball team and a select volleyball team that travels around Texas for tournaments.  I love animals and hope to follow my brothers to Texas A&M University so I can become a veterinarian.  I volunteer for Austin Pug Rescue and am sometimes able to foster pugs that are looking for a “forever home.”

And I have Crohn’s disease.

I don’t let my Crohn’s define me or hold me back.  But sometimes I don’t have a choice.  Every eight weeks I spend hours the doctor’s office getting an infusion of my medicine.  Many days I have to leave school early or miss the day entirely because of my Crohn’s symptoms.  I’ve been poked and prodded much more than the normal 14-year-old.  But I’m one of the lucky ones – I know other Crohn’s kids who have had to have surgeries, which I have avoided so far. 

I’m really hopeful that there will someday be a cure for Crohn’s and colitis.  I would love to wake up in the morning and not have to wonder how I’m going to feel that day - wonder if symptoms are going to prevent me from being with my friends, playing in a tournament, or missing another fun event.

My dad has run two Team Challenge events (Napa and Vegas) to help raise money towards finding a cure.  I was so happy when he told me I was going to be a Team Challenge Honored Hero.  I’m happy to help in any way to raise money for a cure, but I don’t really want to be a hero.  I just want to be a normal 14-year-old girl.  With your help, the money raised may lead to a cure – for me and 1.4 million others with Crohn’s and colitis. 

Thank you so very much for your fundraising efforts!  Good luck with your Team Challenge!

With love and hope,

Emma