Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis affect 1.4 million American adults and children. Most people develop the disease between the ages of 15 and 35.
They are painful, medically incurable illnesses that attack the digestive system, and may attack anywhere in that system. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery.
This weekend, at Corporate Woods, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation is holding a walk. "Take Steps" is the largest annual event deicated to finding cures for Crohn's and Colitis.
Registration and family festivities begin at 4 pm. The walk will be from 7 pm to 8 pm.
Chances are, you know someone with Crohn's. Or ulcerative colitis. You just may not know it. It's not a disease easy to talk about for a lot of people diagnosed, especially the teenagers.
If you'd like to contribute, or walk this weekend, you can learn more on the foundation's website: www.ccfa.org.