





I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in late 2009. From then on, I was frustrated with the progress of my disease. Meds and diets didn't make much change with the 3-4 flareups every year, and hospital visits were hurting me school-wise (I recently graduated from UW-Milwaukee) and financially. I'm currently being tested to find a treatment plan to keep me in remission, which includes hospital infusions every 6 weeks.
So instead of just sitting and waiting, I became motivated to find a cure. I went to Take Steps and loved it, and then came across Team Challenge and did the Las Vegas half-marathon in 2010, FELL....IN....LOVE, and then became a mentor for Team Challenge Napa 2012. In total, I have raised close to $10,000 for research to find better treatment options and the CURE of Crohn's Disease and ulcerative colitis.
This program has also motivated me to be a healthier me. When Team Challenge Napa 2012 started in March, I was determined to have healthier eating habits and exercise more. I did! I ran most of the half marathon, and since then have lost almost 30 pounds! It is now my motivation to help others with weight and diet and it has been a blast!
Many of you don't know someone who has either of the diseases, and that is totally cool! I never heard of these diseases before my diagnosis. But that will change. You will hear so many amazing stories from folks who have or know someone who has the diseases and it will motivate you even more.
Congrats on making this life changing commitment! You are helping over 1.5 MILLION people! You are a hero!