tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67632260623285390372024-03-29T03:29:20.531+00:00#IBDSuperHeroes IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.comBlogger139125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-66685014001106203412023-12-15T11:48:00.003+00:002023-12-15T13:04:05.024+00:00Celebrating the Festive Season with IBD: New Traditions and Challenges<p class="MsoNormal">The holiday season is a time of joy, shared moments, and
cherished traditions. But for those in the IBDSuperHeroes community who are
dealing with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, the festive season unfolds
with a set of challenges. We engaged with our community members to understand
how IBD has influenced their approach to celebrations – from the dishes on
their tables to the gatherings they attend. Here are the insightful and
illuminating responses:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Alannah-Jayne Simpson: A Nostalgic Yearning<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In the midst of festive cheer, Alannah-Jayne shares her
sentiment of missing out on the simple pleasure of sipping a seasonal snowball.
Whether it's the impact of Crohn's or stoma-related complexities, her story
echoes a nostalgic yearning for traditions altered by health considerations.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“Unsure if Crohn’s or stoma related but I cannot handle
alcohol at all no matter what it is or how much. Even a sip will make me have
an extremely sore stomach and then I end up vomiting. I miss being able to have
a snowball on Christmas day.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Lisa Cummins: Crafting a Modified Feast<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Lisa's festive journey involves navigating the delicate
balance of enjoying the holiday feast while being mindful of foods that may not
agree with her stomach. She reveals the art of modification, transforming
potentially uncomfortable moments into a celebration that suits her needs.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“For some reason too much stuffing and gravy doesn’t
agree with my stomach. Also if I have too much wine. So I just mix 7up and make
a spritzer. I still enjoy my Christmas regardless. I’ll still eat the food just
not as much, if I know I’m going somewhere the next day I’ll avoid the food
that makes me feel sick. As I know I’ll be in pain etc. but If i stay home I
know I can rest In bed for the day.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresford: Evolving Traditions<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">From vibrant nights out to cozy evenings, Sahara reflects on
the transformation of her festive traditions. Embracing Christmas markets,
crafting, and planning for the future, she beautifully illustrates the
evolution of joyous occasions to accommodate her body's needs.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“I remember when the festive season meant nights out,
drinking and dancing </i><i><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🤣</span> these days it's all
about the Christmas markets, garden planning for next year, crafting, and movies. The portion sizes don’t really suit my
body either. It’s all big dinners and hefty desserts, but little and often
suits my body much better.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Lisa Fields: Social Strategies<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Lisa Fields navigates the social landscape, expressing a
hesitation to attend work Christmas gatherings due to the uncertainties around
toilets, food, and the journey home. Her thoughtful approach involves strategic
decisions, balancing enjoyment with potential health repercussions.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“I'm not as keen to go to work Xmas dos. Being somewhere
unfamiliar worrying about toilets and food and the journey home too. Food wise
at home, its a gamble, sometimes I'll eat a riskier food if I know I'll be at
home for a few days afterwards anyway as it could be worth it!”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Roger Pasfield: Hopeful Festivities<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Roger Pasfield shares his optimism for a more enjoyable
Christmas despite the challenges of strictures caused by inflammation and scar
tissue. With a hopeful spirit, he looks forward to relishing traditional
delicacies while remaining cautious about potential triggers.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“My last two Christmases have been very difficult with
having strictures, caused by Inflammation and scar tissue build up. This year, I
can enjoy Christmas pudding, mince pies and Ferrero Rocher's. I'll still be
wary of over indulging and also of foods I know I shouldn't eat, but still do
ie. sprouts, stuffing, parsnips, gravy and alcohol.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>Christmas is about family, friends and enjoying the
moment and that's exactly what I'll be doing, even if that means I won't be
feeling great the next day.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Victoria Elise Adams: Celebration with Pragmatism<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Victoria Elise Adams embraces celebration with a pragmatic
mindset, acknowledging the potential aftermath while revelling in the freedom
to enjoy the festivities. Her story highlights the importance of finding a
balance between celebration and self-awareness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“I’ve come to the point where I celebrate how I want and
just accept that I’ll pay for it afterwards. I’m lucky that I’m not having the
most awful symptoms/issues to deal with at the moment so I can do this. Need to
plan ahead a lot more and have a clear schedule for at least a few days after a
holiday though.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In these diverse and reflective narratives, the
IBDSuperHeroes community showcases their resilience and adaptability in
celebrating the festive season. Through modification, redefinition, and mindful
approaches, they continue to shape holiday moments with joy and strength. These
stories, filled with pragmatic optimism and a commitment to celebrating despite
challenges, deserve recognition and understanding. As the holiday season
unfolds, let's celebrate the strength and unity of the IBDSuperHeroes community,
proving that the spirit of joy prevails even in the face of unique challenges. <span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🎄💪</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnOhAgZ379sYJrAw9Vbu-DJyE33mkHRh-hO9MNbU9r0WQWWINgeUk2SqnzXx3lSbT2GqrzuumbTu5CVkzHAWT1Ry5hwfQWYoa9HOu0yoUUgDbLnZjN539kKNEJ9QFkYPSV6fzeXL2RDsIvYzF1vH7f-FGmF_xtq1PO3d3CmmxJd6YvoBPLJmhhlhtrbFK/s940/Untitled%20design.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnOhAgZ379sYJrAw9Vbu-DJyE33mkHRh-hO9MNbU9r0WQWWINgeUk2SqnzXx3lSbT2GqrzuumbTu5CVkzHAWT1Ry5hwfQWYoa9HOu0yoUUgDbLnZjN539kKNEJ9QFkYPSV6fzeXL2RDsIvYzF1vH7f-FGmF_xtq1PO3d3CmmxJd6YvoBPLJmhhlhtrbFK/w400-h335/Untitled%20design.png" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";"><br /></span><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-67667317927383994162023-11-28T11:21:00.005+00:002023-11-28T11:23:17.782+00:00Unite for Awareness: Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week 2023<p>It's time to unite and amplify our
voices for a cause close to our hearts. Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week takes place annually, December 1<sup>st</sup> – 7<sup>th</sup>. This dedicated week serves as a
powerful platform to shed light on the challenges faced by those living with
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).</p><p>Are you ready?</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Why is Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week Important?</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This special week provides a unique opportunity to raise
awareness on a larger scale. It's a chance for us to break through the noise
and ensure that the stories of those living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative
colitis are heard. By sharing our personal experiences, struggles, and
triumphs, we not only educate the public but also foster empathy and
understanding.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>The Power of Visibility</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Visibility is key in our advocacy journey. Crohn's and
Colitis Awareness Week allows us to shine a spotlight on IBD, helping to dispel
myths and misconceptions. As IBDSuperHeroes, we know the strength that comes
from standing together. Let's use this week to showcase the diverse faces and
stories within our community.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">We have an <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1154215781365709&type=3" target="_blank">album on Facebook</a> full of awareness images you’re free to use.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfkWZRweTcf26-1nQRQNfXVsDrHxeHnopLQGdScCiFDrvMKdBFd-yzcB9y4X0N-54j_08OaDeT71PSecBeKGGcs4REY-kLs60GpKkTY_-E9W3yN8_pDSmkgX2ZC8Gnz_0TkFCNqgcy54pdthywqjEikuE49kC_tJWtBxCQFvIo9RZA2ev4xMFwII-6ADS/s1580/IBDSuperHeroes%20Crohns%20and%20Colitis%20Awareness%20Week%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="796" data-original-width="1580" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnfkWZRweTcf26-1nQRQNfXVsDrHxeHnopLQGdScCiFDrvMKdBFd-yzcB9y4X0N-54j_08OaDeT71PSecBeKGGcs4REY-kLs60GpKkTY_-E9W3yN8_pDSmkgX2ZC8Gnz_0TkFCNqgcy54pdthywqjEikuE49kC_tJWtBxCQFvIo9RZA2ev4xMFwII-6ADS/w640-h322/IBDSuperHeroes%20Crohns%20and%20Colitis%20Awareness%20Week%20.png" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">If you’re looking for a Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week
header, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IBDSuperHeroes/photos/a.859607527493204.1073741826.859604554160168/1110465269074094/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">lookno further</a>!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD3o5v5gAtoUAnNo-c54NyaT4E6p13F2Frf3ucYxMQ1Zfj4Lk1cNlG-JhN6cMcigPaIEOwgW9y1GZq1gi5wIlIZZPl1ckF5rnlKfMP5bbNBPTsHJnxykrHbiWu8sI6nRIox1tyTIC004vGD0SsvfH9ZJA5zJ4WzpMuxRc9TYnvseR7cYVhyphenhyphenJmXgGZk723/s1702/IBDSuperHeroes%20Crohns%20and%20Colitis%20Awareness%20Week%20Header%20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1702" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD3o5v5gAtoUAnNo-c54NyaT4E6p13F2Frf3ucYxMQ1Zfj4Lk1cNlG-JhN6cMcigPaIEOwgW9y1GZq1gi5wIlIZZPl1ckF5rnlKfMP5bbNBPTsHJnxykrHbiWu8sI6nRIox1tyTIC004vGD0SsvfH9ZJA5zJ4WzpMuxRc9TYnvseR7cYVhyphenhyphenJmXgGZk723/w640-h237/IBDSuperHeroes%20Crohns%20and%20Colitis%20Awareness%20Week%20Header%20.png" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Spreading the Word: #IBDSuperHeroes</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Our hashtag, #IBDSuperHeroes, is a powerful tool to connect
and unite. During this awareness week, let's flood social media with our
stories, informative posts, and messages of support. Encourage your friends,
family, and followers to join the conversation by using the hashtag and sharing
their own experiences. Together, we can create a wave of awareness that
resonates far and wide. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We love sharing your posts, so <u>include the hashtag and
ensure your privacy settings are set to public</u> to allow us to do that.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Educate, Advocate, Empower</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week is not just about raising
awareness; it's also an opportunity to advocate for better understanding,
improved healthcare, and increased support for those affected by IBD. Let's use
our collective voice to call for positive change and empower our community.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b>Join Us!</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week, let's rally
together as IBDSuperHeroes. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Remember, every <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">share, like, and comment</a> contributes to the
momentum of our cause. Let's make this awareness week a resounding success and
continue to be the superheroes our community needs.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">If you're looking for support, or to give it, we'd love to have you in our private <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stay strong, stay united, and let's paint the world purple
for Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week!</p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-10259912742180933392023-11-10T13:27:00.005+00:002023-11-10T13:28:14.097+00:00Unveiling the Invisible Struggles: Living with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis<p>Living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis goes
beyond the visible symptoms. It's a daily battle with a myriad of challenges
that affect not only the body but the overall quality of life. In a recent
inquiry within the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/IBDSuperHeroes/" target="_blank">IBDSuperHeroes community</a>, members shared their experiences
on the worst aspects of living with these inflammatory bowel diseases. Here are
their unfiltered responses:</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Rene Blakely: The Loss of Weight</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“Loss of appetite and weight loss... I was not prepared
to go from over 250 lbs to barely 90 lbs, and I can literally go 3 days with
nothing to eat and not even notice, not one bit hungry... I look like a walking
skeleton, I am weak, and the fatigue is overwhelming!! Never realized how
important good nutrition was to keeping a body working right. Brain fog, muscle
cramps, and so on all caused by poor nutrition.”</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rene sheds light on the physical toll of Crohn's disease and
ulcerative colitis, emphasizing the drastic impact on weight and the resulting
fatigue. The struggle with nutrition reveals the interconnectedness of physical
and mental well-being.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Stephen Gomm: Navigating the Brain Fog</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“The worst for way too many years to mention for me is
the brain fog and fatigue. The days where the cogs in my brain feel like they
are stuck in neutral and even stringing a four or five-word sentence together
seems like a chore because you forget what you were talking about halfway
through... That's almost every day for me atm.”</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Stephen articulates the cognitive challenges he faces,
vividly describing the mental haze and fatigue that becomes a daily hurdle.
It's a poignant illustration of the invisible battles fought by those with IBD.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresford: Balancing Pain and Urgency</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“For me, it has been different at different times. The
fatigue is a beast, generally. It can make it so difficult to function on a
day-to-day basis. But the urgency and frequency of toilet trips has seen me
housebound at times, or having to take a poo in some places I'd really rather
not have, because it was that or in my knickers! But then there's been long
periods of unbearable pain. Not able to stand up straight, relying on heavier
and heavier pain meds. It's made me really moody and affected my ability to
work and function. So if I have to weigh them up next to each other, I'd say
the pain.”<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sahara shares the dynamic nature of her struggles, ranging
from the relentless fatigue to the urgency of toilet trips. She bravely
confronts the choice between discomfort and societal norms, illustrating the
adaptability required in navigating life with IBD.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Andy Bunting: Tethered by Fatigue</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“I’d go with the fatigue, for me, this is also linked
with interrupted sleep due to having to empty my ostomy bag.”</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Andy touches on the unique challenges of managing an ostomy
bag, intertwining the exhaustion of fatigue with interrupted sleep. It's a
glimpse into the multifaceted nature of the daily battles faced by individuals
like Andy.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Alannah-Jayne Simpson: A Symphony of Pain</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>“I was always in excruciating pain I could barely move, I
would black out on the toilet, I would vomit from pain too... Anything I ate
caused me pain and would go right through me... I've never experienced pain
like that in my life even compared to pregnancy and surgeries nothing has come
close to that, not even a prolapsed stoma.”</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Alannah-Jayne paints a vivid picture of the relentless pain
that accompanied her journey, describing the physical toll on her body and the
emotional toll on her spirit.<o:p></o:p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion</h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">These raw and honest accounts from the IBDSuperHeroes
community shed light on the often unseen challenges faced by individuals living
with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. It's a testament to their
resilience and strength as they navigate a path filled with physical and
emotional hurdles. Through sharing their stories, they not only raise awareness
but also build a supportive community, proving that even in the face of
adversity, their voices will be heard.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2JmgxXVUmIdyjGNGfeZ0YcN0DKnl5F83aLCBqrTWo6D3UnjHpGxO3wFzIuBST6IpY7jUz_bjBSHNYfCAREGfnr_QQ3u-7Gu8H08c3afJasZ_e44uCtAJeSorCTcycrEvmngISdUSlVbWseTEjPBwBlMe3CMA9yoj6N3QZU4Jzys-7mAev6kmuoVkDh-U/s4939/Invisible%20symptoms%20Crohns%20Colitis.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4939" data-original-width="4000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb2JmgxXVUmIdyjGNGfeZ0YcN0DKnl5F83aLCBqrTWo6D3UnjHpGxO3wFzIuBST6IpY7jUz_bjBSHNYfCAREGfnr_QQ3u-7Gu8H08c3afJasZ_e44uCtAJeSorCTcycrEvmngISdUSlVbWseTEjPBwBlMe3CMA9yoj6N3QZU4Jzys-7mAev6kmuoVkDh-U/w518-h640/Invisible%20symptoms%20Crohns%20Colitis.jpeg" width="518" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-18648215235041951132023-09-14T09:53:00.004+01:002023-10-06T13:14:04.126+01:00Navigating Career Changes with IBD: Stories from the IBDSuperHeroes Community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoMfnT9JCySogIeeZoquGlsMZvSGi4zPuEPEWjqI39cC9r5bpXb57MwT_Xm8fhUV1a2t-k1yEx1mgY7BjiB1TOcyNR2FydqKq2bczSCp6awbyMw9fiPKDvUnZVgjVEFLzk9VsaFXfArP52gzk_yRrwG1sNuStgC5f-aNDbN1Dab4sCKzRjW9fSDjKO7rB/s1280/compass-2646437_1280.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="1280" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoMfnT9JCySogIeeZoquGlsMZvSGi4zPuEPEWjqI39cC9r5bpXb57MwT_Xm8fhUV1a2t-k1yEx1mgY7BjiB1TOcyNR2FydqKq2bczSCp6awbyMw9fiPKDvUnZVgjVEFLzk9VsaFXfArP52gzk_yRrwG1sNuStgC5f-aNDbN1Dab4sCKzRjW9fSDjKO7rB/w200-h158/compass-2646437_1280.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Living with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis often
means facing challenges beyond the physical symptoms. For many members of the
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">IBDSuperHeroes community</a>, these conditions have had a profound impact on their
career paths. In this blog post, we'll explore their stories and how they've
adapted to the changes brought about by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).</div></span></div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Vicky Louise Ball: From Teaching to a Flexible Career</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Vicky's journey began as a teacher but took a different turn
after her diagnosis in February 22. The long-term stress of teaching became
physically taxing, prompting her to seek a more flexible and less stressful
career. After persistent efforts, she found a job at a university, offering her
the flexibility she needed.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Alannah-Jayne Simpson: Using Experiences to Collaborate</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Alannah-Jayne couldn't work physically, but she found a way
to channel her experiences into collaborations with ostomy-based companies. Her
resilience and willingness to share her journey have allowed her to contribute
to the IBD community in meaningful ways.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Sophie Amos: Career Progression Despite IBD</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sophie's experience contrasts with the notion that IBD
always hinders career growth. She has had two promotions in just four weeks,
thanks to her accommodating workplace. Her story highlights the importance of
understanding employers who support their employees with chronic illnesses.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Jennie Higgins: Joining the NHS After Surgery</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Jennie's career path shifted towards the healthcare sector
after experiencing exceptional care during her own health journey. She decided
to join the NHS, living her best life while receiving the support she needs for
her illness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Brenda Meakin: A Unique Retirement Decision</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Brenda faced a unique situation; she was 63 at the time of
her diagnosis and had the option to retire. The constant challenges of IBD,
including frequent trips to the toilet and overall unwellness, led her to make
the difficult decision to retire.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Sarah Elizabeth Wells: Balancing Caregiving and Health</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Sarah's life revolves around being a full-time carer for her
son, who has autism and epilepsy. Her own health issues and hospital stays have
made life challenging. She reflects on the complexities of finding a job that
accommodates both her and her son's needs.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Glynis M Lake: Nursing Through Flares</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Glynis was determined to continue her nursing career despite
IBD. She persevered through a midwifery training interruption due to a severe
flare. Her dedication showcases the strength of those living with chronic
illnesses.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Jess Appleton-Goldstraw: Battling Multiple Health
Challenges</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Jess faced a series of health challenges, including IBD,
endometriosis, surgical menopause, and kidney issues. Despite these
difficulties, she remains hopeful about finding a work-from-home job to
accommodate her health needs.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Jane Killin: A Career in Beauty Altered by IBD</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Jane's career as a salon owner was disrupted by the
unpredictable nature of IBD. The constant need to use the restroom made it
impossible to continue running her salon, leading her to make the tough
decision to change careers.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">These stories from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">IBDSuperHeroes community</a> highlight
the resilience and adaptability of individuals living with Crohn's disease and
ulcerative colitis. While IBD can bring unexpected career challenges, it also
opens doors to new opportunities and paths. The strength of these individuals
serves as an inspiration to us all, showing that even in the face of adversity,
it's possible to find fulfilment and success in the professional world.<o:p></o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-48581363452308982782023-09-01T14:08:00.002+01:002023-09-01T14:08:16.265+01:00Exciting News for the IBD Community: Risankizumab Potential Treatment for Ulcerative Colitis<p class="MsoNormal">Hey there, IBD warriors! We've got some exciting news to
share with you about a potential new treatment called Risankizumab for
ulcerative colitis (UC). <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>What is Risankizumab?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Risankizumab, an interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor, is currently
marketed under the trade name Skyrizi and is approved for the treatment of
active psoriatic arthritis, moderately to severely active Crohn disease, and
moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Researchers are looking into it for people with UC. It’s
currently under review, which means doctors and scientists are checking to see
if it can help people with moderately to severely active UC.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Why is This Exciting?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Well, for those of us battling UC, having more treatment
options is a big deal. Sometimes our usual treatments don't work as well as
we'd hope, and that's where Risankizumab might come in.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>What Does "Moderately to Severely Active" Mean?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">When they say "moderately to severely active,"
they're talking about how bad your UC symptoms are. If your UC is causing you a
lot of trouble, like frequent bathroom trips, pain, and inflammation, you're in
the "moderately to severely active" category.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>How Does Risankizumab Work?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Risankizumab is a type of biologic medicine which sticks to a
protein called IL-23. Your immune system makes IL-23 to help you fight
infections, but it can also cause inflammation. Risankizumab blocks the effects
of IL-23, reducing gut inflammation. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>What's Next?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Right now, Risankizumab is going through a process called
"review." This means experts are looking at all the research and data
to decide if it's safe and effective for people with UC. If it gets the green light,
it could become another tool in our UC toolkit.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Stay Tuned!</b><o:p></o:p></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal">We'll keep our eyes on this superhero medicine and let you
know if it becomes available. In the meantime, keep talking to your doctor
about your UC treatment plan, and don't forget that we're here to support each
other in this IBD journey. Together, we're stronger! <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💪</span>
<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObQIAD0Uk0Hpw6aAnngWQgwdSepYXgzrUT63SeJ4bSD8CPVFalR_pKz0DpIxLOfTXDga8OLHPw5K0YEMmpVuj1jl2-PRrE7MX9CskXmDhnoeVMW-mr6m5cxfQ8uiEmb5GGx0UiuprvnoPDs9TaXUPA21mBGcUrJLEi2rEVEnaYfFNArLGmSWCX8TvtW89/s1280/syringe-1884784_1280.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1280" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhObQIAD0Uk0Hpw6aAnngWQgwdSepYXgzrUT63SeJ4bSD8CPVFalR_pKz0DpIxLOfTXDga8OLHPw5K0YEMmpVuj1jl2-PRrE7MX9CskXmDhnoeVMW-mr6m5cxfQ8uiEmb5GGx0UiuprvnoPDs9TaXUPA21mBGcUrJLEi2rEVEnaYfFNArLGmSWCX8TvtW89/w640-h384/syringe-1884784_1280.webp" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";"><br /></span><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-89960807685651046732023-08-04T13:49:00.006+01:002023-10-06T13:13:53.452+01:00My journey battling intestinal strictures (narrowings)<p style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJVcwmZeh6gMofst6TbCiAzPIs4cFwYpF42y503vJmLf92yFhAD__IEufyI3GgQOekckWQhBN5fwxy3oFojXczqG0anQ4JIxYtpGt9PoJPWeANT38wGQHdA4QJdjZntwRLk3blt6Z-wdDl4qlb5yWf1Y1wjT5d9tlyjNMkY3s3uxBw1kEHBOc2gxrF5s/s2048/275180713_10158969612127986_4235877485825171328_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJVcwmZeh6gMofst6TbCiAzPIs4cFwYpF42y503vJmLf92yFhAD__IEufyI3GgQOekckWQhBN5fwxy3oFojXczqG0anQ4JIxYtpGt9PoJPWeANT38wGQHdA4QJdjZntwRLk3blt6Z-wdDl4qlb5yWf1Y1wjT5d9tlyjNMkY3s3uxBw1kEHBOc2gxrF5s/w240-h320/275180713_10158969612127986_4235877485825171328_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>When you're living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD),
it's crazy how long you accept things as your normal, or new normal, so I've
probably been experiencing 'changes' for possibly over 3 years.</p><p style="text-align: left;">These changes, it turns out, are due to intestinal strictures (narrowings). We can’t be sure whether I have them because of my Crohn’s disease or from previous surgeries. </p><p style="text-align: left;">I saw my consultant in London in August 2021. I was referred to a dietitian for advice on what would be best for me health-wise, and that I can also tolerate with my strictures (they can be very painful). I had my bile acid malabsorption (BAM) medication increased and had an MRI planned to look at my strictures to see if dilation was a possibility. I was also referred to a hospital in Manchester, where we'd moved to. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Three strictures were picked up on the MRI scan I had around the end of 2021.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Dilation procedure</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">I knew surgery was on the table, but my consultant, now in Manchester, thought
trying to dilate the strictures was worth a go before heading down that route. </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The first dilation procedure was tried on March 3rd 2022. I was nervous about going into the hospital because my medications had deemed me clinically vulnerable throughout COVID-19. </p><p class="MsoNormal">That dilation procedure failed, even after a totally liquid diet (ensure) for a fortnight before and taking
the bowel prep as directed. They were unable to get the scope to the affected
areas because I was still full of poo! I was really frustrated and upset by this. I’d started preparing for the procedure in December, with a
50/50 liquid diet (with only low residue solid foods)! All of that prep for nothing. The following dilation on July 29th 2022 also failed.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I then needed extended bowel prep before the procedure and to stop my medication for BAM. I was very grumpy (ask my friends on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">IBDSuperHeroes</a>
chat)! It was only after the extended bowel prep that they were able to do the
first dilation, which took place on November 17th 2022. After the procedure, I was told they'd opened the bowel to
about 12mm. I was hopeful that I could enjoy Christmas mince pies without the "normal" agony that follows!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Very disappointingly, the relief from the dilation probably only
lasted about a week, if that!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The consultant was keen to do another dilation. I wasn't
happy about having another procedure, mainly because of the bowel prep! The
actual procedure, I can tolerate as I'm asleep for it - not actually general anaesthetic
(GA) but heavily sedated. I agreed to another procedure as the surgical team
had already stated it could take a few attempts to widen the bowel and get a
good result. It was agreed that I would be referred to colorectal surgery to talk about a resection, too. That last dilation took place on January 20th 2023.<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>I wanted to talk surgery</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’d decided I was ready for surgery right at the very
beginning, even before they'd mentioned a dilation procedure! I've had a
couple of resection surgeries in the past and I know what they entail, so was
up for surgery initially but it was the surgical team that suggested the
dilation procedure and I said, if you think it'll work, and we can avoid
surgery, let's give it a go. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I knew that resection surgery would/should work, as it has
before. Obviously, not super long term because I’m here again, but long enough
to have some decent quality of life. Yes, I was a bit younger, but I was always
very ill when they were performed, this time I'm not as unwell, if that makes
sense?<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I saw the surgeon on March 17th 2023 who confirmed I was on the list for surgery. It's not known yet whether I will wake up with a stoma or not. They won't know until they are poking around in there. It's a worry, but I know I have a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">great community of people</a> I can call on for advice and support. </p><p class="MsoNormal">I was also sent for another MRI scan, so they have an
up-to-date view of what they’re dealing with. I had that on May 12th 2023.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The surgeon’s secretary called me with the date of August 29<sup>th </sup>2023, and I accepted without giving it a second thought! Then I realised that Kelly
will be very busy with her work as she has people on holiday when it's
happening, but all she said was that she could work from home once I'm home
after surgery. She's a keeper!<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>How I’m feeling about my upcoming surgery</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried or anxious as it's a
major surgery with GA (general anaesthetic) and you're at risk just by having a
GA. I'm a little worried about my recovery more than anything, I'm no spring
chicken anymore!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">But I’m also excited, happy and relieved to know that
surgery is now going ahead and I can start getting back to a fuller life,
like I was having before someone mentioned COVID and hopefully I can enjoy a
mince pie with friends this Christmas!</p>Rogerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621928763635319764noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-58256314659001904502022-07-01T10:18:00.002+01:002022-07-01T10:18:00.184+01:00Featured Fundraiser | Danny Callaghan – July 2022<p>Our featured fundraiser this month
is Danny Callaghan, who’s competing in Tough Mudder 15K in Dumfries, Scotland! This
Tough Mudder course is described as the ULTIMATE obstacle course, including 30
obstacles over a 15K (9.32 mile) run. Check out some of the crazy obstacles <a href="https://toughmudder.co.uk/obstacles/">here</a>. Electric shocks and ice
baths don’t sound like my thing, so I’ll await Dan’s after photos and live
through him, for this one!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The goal was to raise £500 for
#IBDSuperHeroes nominated charity, Cure Crohn’s Colitis. He’s exceeded that
already, but with every penny funding IBD research, every penny really does
help! We caught up with Dan to find out a little bit more about his upcoming
challenge.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgui8YS_VuyCkX9OeGs2BShJlfc6NFxI4kgPPse_nBBbeBMSeV2Yy_9CINW1AaZJgOBCKb8S2TQOkfz-dA_UMnxeYsO1K34txGrKIPqqtk1VLLJnLJ4B76XqqXQp9bv1PoQ_n38W5GhbU3ny7U0VTBER9jRRvV65ETDw02XdIGhexClhRoxeX3TkanKPw/s1841/289396409_463325968936197_4389114229722520441_n.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1841" data-original-width="1107" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgui8YS_VuyCkX9OeGs2BShJlfc6NFxI4kgPPse_nBBbeBMSeV2Yy_9CINW1AaZJgOBCKb8S2TQOkfz-dA_UMnxeYsO1K34txGrKIPqqtk1VLLJnLJ4B76XqqXQp9bv1PoQ_n38W5GhbU3ny7U0VTBER9jRRvV65ETDw02XdIGhexClhRoxeX3TkanKPw/w384-h640/289396409_463325968936197_4389114229722520441_n.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><b>Why did you choose to do THIS
as a fundraiser? What inspired you?</b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This is my 4th and will be my last. It’s something I’ve
always done as a larger team, but this time it will be much tougher with just
myself and my older brother. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to raise
funds for #IBDSuperHeroes/Cure Crohn’s Colitis?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’m turning 40 a week later so this seemed enough to keep me
motivated, and of course, help me push through the fatigue and pain of U.C. My
brother, Adam, is one of very few people that were by my side 17 years ago when
I first suffered and had emergency surgery. So to have him compete alongside me
means a great deal to me.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I chose you guys as a charity simply because of how positive
you guys have been in regards to my outlook and desire to help others, since
this charity has been running alongside IBD Superheroes I have seen nothing but
an amazing group of people who sincerely want to help others on a daily basis.
This inspired me to change my outlook and create my social media page towards
helping others stay fit and gain strength. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">And of course, the fact that every penny goes to the charity
is just amazing. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We would like to say a big THANK
YOU to Dan for his fundraising efforts! If you’d like to donate, you can do so <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Danny-Callaghan6">here</a>! <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you have been inspired to do
some fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/donate/">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</a> to
find out how! If you choose to raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it
if you would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">join our team</a>! Then, YOU may be our next featured
fundraiser! </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-18424726730092844572021-11-25T11:35:00.004+00:002024-03-28T11:00:01.605+00:00Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week resources! <p>Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week takes place annually, December 1st - 7th!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nef_O-VjhF9DJS4kVH2EbTEqxMpfRC6eurB5wmsrjc3rxVb3NTGx-VrzWHCJUC_cFNn98ZIPYXNPaMpI2M-jK0Wi-dNZK5i8lkijQZgovFKDN9DEU9DsZZK-OGIBgUDhR4vOY4eeIKc5EYXWC7W00wzJRXvuU-pfreKbivO3JklfGtB1OO9jnU18TW0x/s960/Logo.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="960" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2nef_O-VjhF9DJS4kVH2EbTEqxMpfRC6eurB5wmsrjc3rxVb3NTGx-VrzWHCJUC_cFNn98ZIPYXNPaMpI2M-jK0Wi-dNZK5i8lkijQZgovFKDN9DEU9DsZZK-OGIBgUDhR4vOY4eeIKc5EYXWC7W00wzJRXvuU-pfreKbivO3JklfGtB1OO9jnU18TW0x/s320/Logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>As always, we're here with some resources for you to use and share for your awareness-raising efforts this year! </p><h3 style="text-align: left;">Resources</h3><p>First up, our frames for your profile pictures, available in <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profilepicframes/?selected_overlay_id=285025962915242" target="_blank"><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>purple</b></span></a> and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profilepicframes/?selected_overlay_id=3416948271724328" target="_blank"><span style="color: #fcff01;"><b>yellow</b></span></a>!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREkxbwSx6D9IOApHQrhyphenhyphenS8CnZMTNwH9TLSDrxVSaDnlyuns4af25OBP1OfIgyk84ui0R1xIVeot523Gq7drzw3seGCcll407nA-0B6ekdIy-z8yFr00BAm9hvSCWRZASxJHxbr_biPlsz/s1040/CC+awareness+week+facebook+frame.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="1040" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiREkxbwSx6D9IOApHQrhyphenhyphenS8CnZMTNwH9TLSDrxVSaDnlyuns4af25OBP1OfIgyk84ui0R1xIVeot523Gq7drzw3seGCcll407nA-0B6ekdIy-z8yFr00BAm9hvSCWRZASxJHxbr_biPlsz/w640-h210/CC+awareness+week+facebook+frame.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>You can find our Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week header <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IBDSuperHeroes/photos/a.859607527493204.1073741826.859604554160168/1110465269074094/?type=3&theater" target="_blank"><b>here</b></a>.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvV3dzRZbf_YdRkoBc6dv_D8X_JD2OLjBfGR188j4_Ajne89FbQpzKFrBFKT-YsAvs0EHdunKK9fa9cL7ny5ID-BZNSbKnKQjqyb0YdXmE1sw-lAlfGTQPhDzagsd3ni3whUGRFhg8FyL/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="630" data-original-width="1702" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlvV3dzRZbf_YdRkoBc6dv_D8X_JD2OLjBfGR188j4_Ajne89FbQpzKFrBFKT-YsAvs0EHdunKK9fa9cL7ny5ID-BZNSbKnKQjqyb0YdXmE1sw-lAlfGTQPhDzagsd3ni3whUGRFhg8FyL/w640-h236/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>Find our awareness images in our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1154215781365709&type=3" target="_blank"><b>Facebook album</b></a>!</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku4hR9pZ4BpuG8LeiVTlN5WzIu8KglzW65w2K_AJEQPxHm2dKFLcZSrXtU-onyEGXQmuTe2FJEvm0uSA_eH-nmjdXd5fZlLo5kZ2VqpV_vQUkYnrecKMupFoay4l3YkrzjI54wEMXtlGH/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="620" data-original-width="1653" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiku4hR9pZ4BpuG8LeiVTlN5WzIu8KglzW65w2K_AJEQPxHm2dKFLcZSrXtU-onyEGXQmuTe2FJEvm0uSA_eH-nmjdXd5fZlLo5kZ2VqpV_vQUkYnrecKMupFoay4l3YkrzjI54wEMXtlGH/w640-h240/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Share your story</h3><div><br /></div><div>We'd love to share YOUR awareness posts! To do that, you have to help us find them! <b>Include the hashtag #IBDSuperHeroes</b> on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and tag the Facebook page on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">Facebook</a>! Your privacy settings <u>have to be set to public</u> to allow us to share!<p></p><p>We will also be sharing information about IBD symptoms and myths on our <a href="https://linktr.ee/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">social media platforms</a>, and we'd love it if you'd share some of those! </p><p>If you're looking for support, or to give it, we'd love to have you in our private <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Facebook group</a>! We have weekly weekend catch-ups and a film club too - all of which you will find in the events section of the group!</p><h4 style="text-align: left;">Other useful links:</h4><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><a href="https://tinyurl.com/IBDSHFunds " target="_blank">50+ in-person and virtual fundraising ideas</a></li><li><a href="https://tinyurl.com/IBDSHMHSupport" target="_blank">Mental Health support</a></li><li><a href="https://tinyurl.com/IBDSHTreatment " target="_blank">Treatment options</a></li><li>Buy face <a href="https://tinyurl.com/IBDSHMask " target="_blank">masks</a> or <a href="https://tinyurl.com/IBDSHBands " target="_blank">wristbands</a> </li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">💕</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal"><i>IBDSuperHeroes raises funds for <a href="https://www.bowelresearchuk.org/" target="_blank">Bowel Research UK</a>. </i><i>Funds raised by IBDSuperHeroes and Team
IBDSuperHeroes are restricted for use in <b><a href="https://www.bowelresearchuk.org/research-hub/?sort=&limit=&topic=inflammatory-bowel-disease&type=&tab=cards-list&search=#search-form" target="_blank">inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) related projects</a> only</b>.
This commitment ensures that all donations go towards initiatives to enhance
the lives of people with IBD. Research includes studies aiming to improve
treatment options, disease management, quality of life, and ultimately, to find
a cure for IBD.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Donate via our JustGiving <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/page/ibd-superheroes-fundraising" target="_blank">here</a>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><b><o:p> </o:p>Together we are stronger.</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Together we can fight harder.<br />Together – we CAN be HEROES!</b></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p></o:p></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif" style="text-align: left;">💕</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p><em style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><u style="font-weight: bold;"></u></em></p><div style="text-align: center;"><em style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><u style="font-weight: bold;"><em><u><span face="TwitterChirp, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, Segoe UI, Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif" style="color: #0f1419;"><span style="-webkit-text-fill-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); font-size: 20px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></u></em></u></em></div><p></p></div>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-83132990331408444502021-04-15T07:52:00.000+01:002021-04-15T07:52:06.268+01:00Featured Fundraiser | Natalie & Simon – April 2021<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">This month, our featured
fundraisers are Natalie and Simon. They have been hosting live stream <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Mitchells.NewcastleunderLyme">music events through
Facebook</a>! We caught up with them to find out a little bit more about what they’ve
been doing and why!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13teNi2zZhr2T-xboBswF81eBu6YxYpTQf_leeEmmWvtN4oxWrM93qE0sEOKjfNN9rU-V9RDh8r2l9tTlzOsbE8rInqko7moBr-j1K4-Od_F-8qvnmQgKBFLfKTlLYYtts8pLSEn5zWU7/s1040/Nat%2526Simon.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1040" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13teNi2zZhr2T-xboBswF81eBu6YxYpTQf_leeEmmWvtN4oxWrM93qE0sEOKjfNN9rU-V9RDh8r2l9tTlzOsbE8rInqko7moBr-j1K4-Od_F-8qvnmQgKBFLfKTlLYYtts8pLSEn5zWU7/w400-h283/Nat%2526Simon.png" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><h3 style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><b>Tell us about your fundraiser!
What are you doing?</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We are hosting live streams on
Facebook, where local artists volunteer to perform and it is free to watch with
donations welcome on the night throughout the stream. All donations are made
through our JustGiving link which means all proceeds go straight to Cure Crohn’s
Colitis.<b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><b>Why did you choose to do THIS
as a fundraiser? What inspired you?</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We decided to do this particular
event as a fundraiser as we run a well-known live music venue in
Newcastle-under-Lyme, and we missed having live music on at our venue since we
have been closed due to COVID. We wanted to bring live music back to the community,
whilst also giving local artists, who have been out of work, some exposure, as
well as raising money for charity at the same time.<b><o:p></o:p></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>
<h3 style="margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;"><b>Why did you choose to raise
funds for #IBDSuperHeroes/Cure Crohn’s Colitis?</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We chose to raise money for Cure
Crohn’s Colitis as this particular charity is our house charity who we raise
money for every year. When we are open, we have charity tins on the bar and
always encourage customers to donate or if they want us to keep the change, we
put it in the charity tin.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="m-4826757978029747193msolistparagraph">This charity has always meant a
lot to me and Simon as we both suffer with IBD. I have Crohn’s Disease and
Simon has Ulcerative Colitis. We have also hosted bigger charity events in the
past that were in aid of Cure Crohn’s Colitis and we would really like to host
more in the near future.</p><p class="m-4826757978029747193msolistparagraph"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJu0LQ4jpdMfDA9TTGjweH5sI9-p0V_L6Sb4wmibaj_0-9Z0ZERC0oT9hJgq4CBcIQYIB_S_JuavpZgAc3UjREllb48I4C70brdIAl7bhjC3fkWxNKWFHgKSY0b9hvarmpPU1ALXv2E54/s1585/LiveStreamPoster.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1189" data-original-width="1585" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJu0LQ4jpdMfDA9TTGjweH5sI9-p0V_L6Sb4wmibaj_0-9Z0ZERC0oT9hJgq4CBcIQYIB_S_JuavpZgAc3UjREllb48I4C70brdIAl7bhjC3fkWxNKWFHgKSY0b9hvarmpPU1ALXv2E54/s320/LiveStreamPoster.png" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p class="m-4826757978029747193msolistparagraph">We would like to say a big THANK
YOU to Natalie and Simon for their continued fundraising efforts! If you’d like
to donate, you can do so <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mitchellslockdownlive">here</a>!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you have been inspired to do
some fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/donate/">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</a> to
find out how! If you choose to raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it
if you would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">join our team</a>! Then, YOU may be our next featured
fundraiser! </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">#IBDSuperHeroes chose to support
Cure Crohn’s Colitis because 100% of the donations they receive fund patient
centric IBD research, aiming to improve the lives of people with Crohn’s
Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. If you’d like to donate, allowing future
investment into vital studies, <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/IBDSuperHeroesCureCC">visit our
fundraising page</a>.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09287184745538056278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-53511486420100507852021-04-13T10:43:00.000+01:002021-04-13T10:43:37.245+01:00Mental Health support resources<p>Being diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease can be
incredibly stressful. Prolonged periods of flare, worrisome treatments, and the
long-term impact on quality of life can add an additional layer of stress.
Research continually shows that people who live with Crohn’s disease and
ulcerative colitis are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. So, if
you’re feeling a little lost, isolated, scared, anxious, or depressed, you
really are not alone!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Whether you’re looking for someone to talk to, or something
a little more self-help focused, we’ve got you covered - we even found a
self-help app! So, <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/gxm02d90sqgad7c/Mental%20Health%20support.pdf?dl=0" target="_blank">let’s dive in</a>!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cOhBVv9w-1D1xExw5I3le6_reFBkCdFAtakH4K4IwD_n6M37smDhtXv3oHov-Wj4m_L23Ck0Pa6vDUGsmqdIuVUv7qYfb6qNnYMcb5SMOJI1uzNpos6804O2c59tjw9tTUBZIYMnNCOP/s1102/mh.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="1102" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8cOhBVv9w-1D1xExw5I3le6_reFBkCdFAtakH4K4IwD_n6M37smDhtXv3oHov-Wj4m_L23Ck0Pa6vDUGsmqdIuVUv7qYfb6qNnYMcb5SMOJI1uzNpos6804O2c59tjw9tTUBZIYMnNCOP/w640-h255/mh.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-47140957707213505432021-04-13T10:41:00.005+01:002021-04-13T10:41:32.597+01:00#My125 challenge!<p class="MsoNormal">Are you feeling up for a challenge? </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🚴</span> <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">⚽</span>️
<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🚶
🏀 ⛹</span>️ <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🎾 🏊</span> <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🥏
🏓 🥅 🚶</span> <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🧗 🏋</span>️<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">
🧘</span> <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🤹</span>️ <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">🎯
🚶</span>️<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The latest figures suggest that Inflammatory Bowel Disease
(IBD) affects <b>one in every</b> <b>125 people</b> in the United Kingdom. That
is projected to rise to over one in 100 by 2028.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With that in mind, we wanted to make that 125 into a challenge
for World IBD Day (May 19th), to raise funds for <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/curecrohncolitis" target="_blank">Cure Crohn's Colitis</a> (C3)! We choose to fundraise for C3 because 100% of the money they receive gets invested in IBD research.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Of course, we know that everyone’s physical fitness levels
will be different, especially after many have needed to shield during COVID-19.
It’s also likely that your interests and what you can and can’t physically do
will differ too. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Some of our team are challenging themselves to 12,500 steps
on World IBD Day. Some may be able to aim for 125,000 over the week! You might want
to swim 125 lengths over a week, or you might fancy a different sport or hobby such
as rock climbing, darts, juggling, golf, or gardening… You could plant 125 flowers. Cycle 1.25 miles. Bake 125 cupcakes. Whatever you want - get
creative with <u>YOUR 125</u>! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We have created a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2598052103830376/" target="_blank">Facebook event</a> for everyone doing their
own personal challenge for <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/curecrohncolitis" target="_blank">C3</a> to share updates. Don’t forget to ask friends and family
for sponsorship! If you create a <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/curecrohncolitis" target="_blank">JustGiving page for C3</a>, we'd LOVE it if you'd join
the IBDSuperHeroes team page! When you're logged in to JustGiving, click <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/teams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">here</a> and then "join the team".</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Share your training/progress, and updates on the day on
social media using hashtag #My125. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/2598052103830376/" target="_blank">Don’t forget to join the Facebook event page too</a>! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9tnLAYn-OGpVHUaBpLFWJaF_aaqHCsKY29dUJV_K8ZeOy39sb0xXFpv8wyWOjg9n6ti5OvNE-Y_jz4fq12pj1sZ34R34XBNcHaJXKe5TKQskaoKvW4iXSlGWZolSm9PSK0MD1ouLFZVG/s1080/%2523My125+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid9tnLAYn-OGpVHUaBpLFWJaF_aaqHCsKY29dUJV_K8ZeOy39sb0xXFpv8wyWOjg9n6ti5OvNE-Y_jz4fq12pj1sZ34R34XBNcHaJXKe5TKQskaoKvW4iXSlGWZolSm9PSK0MD1ouLFZVG/w640-h640/%2523My125+2.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-47670295477525118652021-04-13T07:06:00.003+01:002021-04-13T07:28:44.256+01:00In-person and virtual fundraising ideas!<p>People often think that fundraising has to be super
challenging, but that’s really not the case. Fundraising is simply about
raising funds for a cause that matters to you. Most of all, we believe it should
be fun - FUNdraising!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">People with IBD may not always be in the best health, so we have taken that into account and compiled a <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/875k8r1zj54bmvn/Fundraising%20ideas.xlsx " target="_blank">huge Excel list of ideas</a>, that you can do
physically, or online! Some are challenging, some are simply fun, and some are
just a bit weird… Use your imagination! <span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif">😊</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif">If you're creating a JustGiving page to collect funds on, we'd LOVE it if you'd join the IBDSuperHeroes team page! When you're logged in to JustGiving, click <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/teams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">here</a> and then "join the team".</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">Click <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/875k8r1zj54bmvn/Fundraising%20ideas.xlsx " target="_blank">here</a> to dive in - we’ve listed them alphabetically! <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNzuIRy9AcxdtA8dsVBKFsvP3yKkSfyAtlLBRdp_pBKOF5dZfSvBKfQdBT-hmIKy47AKed0icMADvuJEHDoFjJZ7l4ZJSBLdApaVCBNamztsehQN_jHLiGgRGwCBL9DP8FJAPb0LJEzcb/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="691" data-original-width="1808" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNzuIRy9AcxdtA8dsVBKFsvP3yKkSfyAtlLBRdp_pBKOF5dZfSvBKfQdBT-hmIKy47AKed0icMADvuJEHDoFjJZ7l4ZJSBLdApaVCBNamztsehQN_jHLiGgRGwCBL9DP8FJAPb0LJEzcb/w640-h244/image.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09287184745538056278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-26024479419701051212021-03-15T06:58:00.009+00:002021-03-15T07:12:39.630+00:00Featured Fundraisers | Hannah & Sarah – March 2021<p>This month, our featured
fundraisers are Hannah and Sarah, who are selling some items on Etsy. Hannah
has Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and Sarah is her best friend. We caught up with
Sarah to find out a little bit more about what they’re doing and why!<b><o:p> </o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Tell us about your fundraiser! What
are you doing?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic";">The
IBD superhero llama came about when we had a drawing competition - it was just
a bit of fun to pass the time. I liked Hannah’s llama so I started turning it
into different designs. I made the IBD superhero design as a bit of surprise
for her.</span> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: "Segoe UI Historic";">I
have seen Hannah suffer for the longest time and it breaks my heart that there
is nothing I can do to help her other than being a bit of comfort when it
really hits hard, so, I thought making this would put a smile on her face.
Hannah then made the suggestion to put it onto my Etsy store to raise funds for
IBDSuperHeroes nominated charity, Cure Crohn’s Colitis (C3).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_EmOYXK080YB8ftlTv-2p8KazWb1FYeAAncx30NfisXbnWD_97G0uK3AyM2WssA5V3v5i2OLCzyUvJTDel0c511yO8qhXl9v3q4k1TPjk68HIOCy5LvO41MUF-j4pYOl-8MHyZuj2Weh/s907/IBD+llama.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="907" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3_EmOYXK080YB8ftlTv-2p8KazWb1FYeAAncx30NfisXbnWD_97G0uK3AyM2WssA5V3v5i2OLCzyUvJTDel0c511yO8qhXl9v3q4k1TPjk68HIOCy5LvO41MUF-j4pYOl-8MHyZuj2Weh/w640-h288/IBD+llama.png" width="640" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>Why did you choose to do THIS as a
fundraiser? What inspired you?</b></h3><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">This has all been inspired by Hannah,
she is my best friend and one of the strongest people I know and if my
stickers, mugs, and drinking glasses help raise money for something she
strongly believes in and gives others something to smile at, I’m more than
happy to do it.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to raise funds for
#IBDSuperHeroes/Cure Crohn’s Colitis?</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The Etsy shop had been something I had
wanted to do for a while and I knew that I could make these designs into
stickers, mugs, and drinking glasses. So, I put the IBD llama up for people to
see and buy. Hannah has spoken about the IBD Facebook group she is on and has
mentioned the C3 charity before, and it is something close to her heart so I
knew I could help a little by giving a portion of the profits to the charity.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We would like to say a big THANK YOU
to Hannah and Sarah for their<span style="color: red;"> </span>fundraising
efforts! If you’d like to look at their shop, you can do so <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/968594399/cute-hero-llama-ibd-stickers" target="_blank"><span style="color: #674ea7; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: black;">here</span></a>!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you have been inspired to do some
fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/donate/"><span style="color: #674ea7; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: black;">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</span></a> to find out how! If you choose
to raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it if you would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank"><span style="color: #674ea7; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: black;">join our team</span></a>! Then,
YOU may be our next featured fundraiser! </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">#IBDSuperHeroes chose to support Cure
Crohn’s Colitis because 100% of the donations they receive fund patient-centric
IBD research, aiming to improve the lives of people with Crohn’s Disease and
Ulcerative Colitis. If you’d like to donate, allowing future investment into
vital studies, <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/IBDSuperHeroesCureCC"><span style="color: #674ea7; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: black;">visit our fundraising page</span></a>.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09287184745538056278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-76703320778288556702021-02-26T10:30:00.003+00:002021-02-26T10:31:15.432+00:00Featured Fundraiser | Kelly – February 2021<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">This month, our featured
fundraiser is Kelly; she is selling some of her crafts for charity.<span style="color: red;"> </span>We caught up with her<span style="color: red;">
</span>to find out more about what she's doing
and why!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdFNHZT4RnsUqiS8eQaq_AvYRcOUQlrJ-PWio29anpSMImYp_uxyxOEt-CK4ZllFctPdhVpzSmwtCTWa7alxXc3GY18FAkypwP9mgxohdDFhgQXUFGmPbzjvPPv2Bl2r4-ITlRezJe7G2/s503/153555094_899424047512346_2071021780153385400_n.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="307" data-original-width="503" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpdFNHZT4RnsUqiS8eQaq_AvYRcOUQlrJ-PWio29anpSMImYp_uxyxOEt-CK4ZllFctPdhVpzSmwtCTWa7alxXc3GY18FAkypwP9mgxohdDFhgQXUFGmPbzjvPPv2Bl2r4-ITlRezJe7G2/s320/153555094_899424047512346_2071021780153385400_n.gif" width="320" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Tell us about your fundraiser!
What are you doing?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I am making some IBD Awareness
keyrings to sell for charitable donations for IBDSuperheroes/Cure Crohns
Colitis.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to do THIS
as a fundraiser? What inspired you?</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I bought a new crafting machine
and wondered what I could do with it, so I started with something that I knew
about, and that's obviously my disease, so I thought why not spread some
awareness and raise money at the same time?!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">My inspiration came from the IBDSuperHeroes
group. I have seen a lot of the work the team do and wanted to give back. IBD
impacts our lives in many aspects and a lot of it we suffer in silence. It's
important to speak up about the disease and get conversations started!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to raise
funds for #IBDSuperHeroes/Cure Crohn’s Colitis?</b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The support group are an amazing
group of people and know what it's like to live with this disease. They offer a
listening ear and support for people like me, and they do it for free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The reason I picked Cure Crohn's Colitis as the charity, is that they donate 100% of funds for research into
new treatments, which can have a huge impact in improving the quality of lives
of those living with IBD.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We would like to say a big THANK
YOU to Kelly for her<span style="color: red;"> </span>fundraising
efforts! </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you have been inspired to do
some fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/donate/">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</a> to
find out how! If you choose to raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it
if you would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">join our team</a>! Then, YOU may be our next featured
fundraiser! </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">#IBDSuperHeroes chose to support
Cure Crohn’s Colitis because 100% of the donations they receive fund patient
centric IBD research, aiming to improve the lives of people with Crohn’s
Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. If you’d like to donate, allowing future
investment into vital studies, <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/IBDSuperHeroesCureCC">visit our
fundraising page</a>.<o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09287184745538056278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-45837776713349189792021-01-25T09:40:00.000+00:002021-01-25T09:48:36.608+00:00B12 deficiency in Inflammatory Bowel Disease<p>In this video, I talked to IBDSuperHeroes, Annie and Roger. Both have Crohn's Disease and vitamin B12 deficiency.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">We cover:</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span>Why it happens<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span>Symptoms<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span>Diagnosis<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span>Treatment process<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="362" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/871F-aUbzic" width="500" youtube-src-id="871F-aUbzic"></iframe></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p>Sahara Fleetwood-Beresfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09287184745538056278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-46983395680458335682021-01-10T14:34:00.005+00:002021-01-10T14:38:34.971+00:00Folic acid deficiency in IBD<p><i><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bJvL5cfALq_XuJY3pVt8e3MZF4jSx71_CDX1Et9eUS4XzXb6wK2TR3ocf2SjuQRJv8tBMO7qfyfCnn_HhWs8e9k2FcCNGffiC46rjWPzxxzgOfCCIkroyLqxPetPOyMU0S3yXmumaLNy/s1840/137565618_213562727097347_7101215718216740322_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1840" data-original-width="1376" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6bJvL5cfALq_XuJY3pVt8e3MZF4jSx71_CDX1Et9eUS4XzXb6wK2TR3ocf2SjuQRJv8tBMO7qfyfCnn_HhWs8e9k2FcCNGffiC46rjWPzxxzgOfCCIkroyLqxPetPOyMU0S3yXmumaLNy/w238-h320/137565618_213562727097347_7101215718216740322_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></span></i></div><p class="MsoNormal"><i>~ Written by IBDSuperHeroes team member, Annie Richards.<o:p></o:p></i></p><p></p><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>How I found out I needed folic acid supplements</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">In 2017, I found myself becoming increasingly tired. I was
due by B12 injection so I assumed it was that. Until I dropped my son off with
his dad, went to sleep, and woke up 25 hours later to my phone notifications
blowing up! If it wasn’t for the fact that I had arranged a call with my friend
and I had many missed calls and messages worried about me I don’t think I’d
have looked at the date and realised straight away. This was just after
Christmas in 2017 so I had to wait a few days for a blood test. They checked my
B12 (in case I just needed more frequent injections) and my folate levels. The
results came back, and my folate was almost none existent.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As it was a GP who discovered it, it was mostly done online.
I went in for the blood tests, had a note put on my online profile that they
were prescribing folic acid tablets for 4 weeks, and I got a text from the
pharmacy to say my tablets were ready to collect. It was only about 18 months
after, and because of the constant need for folic acid supplements, that it was
connected to my Crohn’s disease.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I had a right hemicolectomy in 2014, so I don’t absorb
certain nutrients properly (B12 included), so they believe it is down to that. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now that my gastro team are involved they are a lot more
aware and understanding about these things. It’s them that have a dietician
help me try to incorporate folate into my diet as well as the medications to
try and help. Folic acid has been added to my repeat prescription list, so I take
it on a regular basis. Even though my levels are never ‘normal’ they are high
enough that I don’t need any other intervention.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now, I need to have blood tests whenever I’m on my period as
folate levels are known to drop at that time, and I have needed a blood bag due
to low folate before (especially if the folate level doesn’t rise again after the
period has ended).<o:p></o:p></p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>A more recent experience</b></h3>
<p class="MsoNormal">Recently, I began feeling really exhausted, out of breath
going up the stairs, and like there was weights on all my limbs. I also suffer
from restless legs syndrome, and that was out of control too. The medication I
was on for that didn’t help, and it was no longer just my legs, my arms were
flailing around all night too!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">They ran blood tests and it was discovered that the folic
acid tablets aren’t working as well as they used to be. They are checking to see
if I’m flaring in my small intestine - which could be a contributing factor as
to why this is happening.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For more information on vitamin B12 or folate deficiency
anaemia, go to the <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamin-b12-or-folate-deficiency-anaemia/">NHS
website</a>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-73765054411589688472021-01-10T13:50:00.006+00:002021-01-10T14:41:04.441+00:00Mental Health support resources during COVID-19<p>COVID-19 has seen a huge rise in the number of people
struggling with their Mental Health. If you’re included, you really are not
alone!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Whether you’re looking for someone to talk to, or something
a little more self-help focused, we’ve got you covered! We even found a
self-help app! <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/s/jl8jsgv01dy4xjr/Mental%20Health%20support%20during%20COVID.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Check them out here</a>.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">We are all in this together <span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">💜</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTqsWWkxF5b6XGPml4qvprB8T0NqA_DNboSgbxXNbKRf01Ni2eCuSNslTPv26iekCDjnQ2esKPBOKcK0YH4gaRy6Rjfv_2ySvYNZWn1I5xw6ANHrlHlvHFI40hif01LfscSSOLm0eAFxK/s1140/mh+ibdsh.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="1140" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuTqsWWkxF5b6XGPml4qvprB8T0NqA_DNboSgbxXNbKRf01Ni2eCuSNslTPv26iekCDjnQ2esKPBOKcK0YH4gaRy6Rjfv_2ySvYNZWn1I5xw6ANHrlHlvHFI40hif01LfscSSOLm0eAFxK/w640-h220/mh+ibdsh.PNG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";"><br /></span><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-47380683290810750022020-12-22T10:53:00.006+00:002020-12-22T10:53:53.965+00:00Featured Fundraiser | Annie – December 2020<p>This month, the IBDSuperHeroes featured fundraiser is our own team member, Annie! <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px;">💜 </span>She had a 100 square fundraising scratch card, which sold out in under a week! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-5XM-wE3YE7Rw76ZDKhtovlln02wP6-zpH6rnK-Br654mzFYQzUIWe6FhFCfv2rDQHmaPygzwDTRmt_zH7LZEMsgRwkG6iZZljz9_zp7_m32G8eqEaqbvjHC77BX2Ulg6xmDD0igBPxG/s1239/Annie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1239" data-original-width="1239" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP-5XM-wE3YE7Rw76ZDKhtovlln02wP6-zpH6rnK-Br654mzFYQzUIWe6FhFCfv2rDQHmaPygzwDTRmt_zH7LZEMsgRwkG6iZZljz9_zp7_m32G8eqEaqbvjHC77BX2Ulg6xmDD0igBPxG/s320/Annie.jpg" /></a></div><p><b>Tell us about your fundraiser!
What are you doing?<br /></b>I decided to do a Christmas
scratchcard as a way to raise money, awareness, and also for the winners to
hopefully win some money in these difficult times.</p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to do THIS
as a fundraiser? What inspired you?<br /></b><b><o:p> </o:p></b>I’ve seen these used before for
other charities - and after a member suggested it, I thought it would be a good
idea!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><b>Why did you choose to raise
funds for #IBDSuperHeroes/Cure Crohn’s Colitis?<br /></b>After suffering with Crohns
disease for such a long time and helping other charities - being able to raise
money for a charity where 100% of money raised goes to research was a breath of
fresh air. I look forward to many projects in the future, and look forward to
helping out #IbdSuperHeroes more!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">A BIG thank you to Annie for being so proactive with her square selling!!</p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">If you have been inspired to do
some fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/" target="_blank">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</a> to find out
how! If you choose to raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it if you
would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">join our team</a>! Then, YOU may be our next featured fundraiser!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-4842163094752573802020-12-07T09:00:00.014+00:002024-03-28T10:59:52.294+00:00Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Week | Lisa's story<p>I had a somewhat of an odd journey, symptom and diagnosis
wise. Apart from feeling really unwell with stomach pains, my main symptom was
anaemia. I started to see lots of doctors and received a few miss-diagnoses.
This, I have found out, is pretty normal when waiting for a diagnosis for IBD!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFS_sw2nx4LOEyE90FT6Aa7vrPwqpt8e1cJmuIjL_5HP5ZFp7T6wW745PTsbpNd1X7PfJNLA_QMirMSaqSAc1IDfmjjAEndhQBs3f2MTdDy0eskZPparIx6L7D1V6F7iQgPeEREc3rmJD/s1440/127720552_137067317872130_7865465226346683342_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaFS_sw2nx4LOEyE90FT6Aa7vrPwqpt8e1cJmuIjL_5HP5ZFp7T6wW745PTsbpNd1X7PfJNLA_QMirMSaqSAc1IDfmjjAEndhQBs3f2MTdDy0eskZPparIx6L7D1V6F7iQgPeEREc3rmJD/s320/127720552_137067317872130_7865465226346683342_n.jpg" /></a></div><p>First I was diagnosed with IBS by my GP. IBD does often get
confused with its similarly sounding acronym IBS but they are not related at
all. IBS stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome which can be managed and can even
go away altogether, however, IBD is an immune-mediated disease which, unfortunately, has no cure. Later I was diagnosed with Gastric Migraines and was also
hospitalised with a severe bacterial infection, which I now think was all
related to my Crohn’s Disease.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Finally, due to a lot of pain and lots of quite invasive
tests (endoscopy and colonoscopy) I first heard the mention of Crohn’s Disease.
I was sedated but remembered hearing the Dr say “it looks like Crohn’s”. I then
had to have one more horrible test to confirm it, a barium x-ray where you
drink a solution and have x-rays taken of your insides while it works its way
through. I still have the copy of this as it clearly shows my (then) pretty bad
blockage from ulcerations. February 2005, I finally had my diagnosis.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I’d never heard of Crohn’s Disease. The Dr told me to not
look it up on the internet, so, I didn’t! It was very scary at the time and my
then manager’s reaction was “well it can’t be that bad”. But it was.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I was put on some maintenance drugs but they didn’t help
much and by June of that year, my blockage was so severe, I ended up in
A&E, and had to have emergency major surgery to remove over 30 cm (12
inches) of small intestine and I have a huge scar to prove it. The surgeon told
me afterwards that it was the worst case he’d seen!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After recovering from the surgery, I felt better but had a
new challenge. Due to the surgery, I had what my Gastroenterologist called “a
shortcut” and a new additional diagnosis of BAM or Bile Acid Malabsorption
along with obviously still having Crohn’s Disease (because, like I said, no
cure) and I take medication for this every day since. It means I must be
careful what I eat and always have medication around (and hopefully a toilet
too).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">For years, I only had to be on the BAM medication and I felt
ok Crohn’s wise. I was in remission. However, after a while, I started feeling
more unwell so for the last few years my medication for Crohn’s Disease has
been increased. Firstly, it was just pills but now it’s both pills and regular
injections and these are about to be increased as well. Being on regular
medication like this makes me feel more like a sick person, unfortunately. Being
told to shield during the first lockdown earlier this year also made me feel
that way.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Luckily, since my diagnosis, I have found support in groups
set up by fellow IBDers. One’s a group called IBDSuperHeroes. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Most days I feel ok. But lately, because I’m in a flare and
my meds need adjusting again, I feel fatigue. This is different to tired. My
body is fighting the inflammation caused by the flare and this is exhausting.
That and the pain, obviously. Unfortunately for me, weight loss has never been
a symptom!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I do consider myself lucky to have been able to work
fulltime throughout (except for the two months signed off for surgery) as I
know some people with IBD who are too unwell and some who have had issues with
employers who just don’t understand. Some days I just need a little extra time
to get up and wait for the pain to subside, some days it doesn’t and I can’t
work. Working from home now has certainly helped with that as the commute is
less daunting! Having an understanding manager also really helps!<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Also, having Elliott (my husband) around all this time for
support makes a huge difference. I met him when I was really ill, before I was
diagnosed, and through the surgery, he still stuck around. No refunds though as
he knew I was faulty when he proposed! <span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";">😍💕😉</span><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwq6YceHGxj42m0oml0QDPPKpVE00DpOXf0JOPza8rkvQtw6NlJbAAf4nfo96nPAV064WAUefMAX1CEZREmVcWwEuCPOsT1ZTfhZyac4Jb17Xd6aqBDGB27hufsOulMh4MdT7HAMuNejh/s1800/Lisa+%2526+Elliott.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwq6YceHGxj42m0oml0QDPPKpVE00DpOXf0JOPza8rkvQtw6NlJbAAf4nfo96nPAV064WAUefMAX1CEZREmVcWwEuCPOsT1ZTfhZyac4Jb17Xd6aqBDGB27hufsOulMh4MdT7HAMuNejh/w320-h400/Lisa+%2526+Elliott.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><br /><span face=""Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji";"><br /></span><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-54825420350079343322020-12-05T07:52:00.015+00:002020-12-05T07:52:00.438+00:00Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Week | Natasha's story<p>My IBD journey started in 2003 when I was diagnosed with
Crohn's Disease, 2 months before starting university. I was given Pentasa and
everything was going well. However, my Crohn's became extreme in 2010. I can't
remember a time that I was not flaring or an inpatient.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Since then, I had my large bowel
removed in 2014 forming a permanent stoma, and was given infliximab, at the same time. I
vomited more than 2 litres of blood and had clamps placed because of a
perforated stomach ulcer. I thought this would be the end of my problems, but no, my Crohn's decided to spread to my
small bowel. So, I had 2ft of my small bowel removed in 2017, and continued with
infliximab.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Now in 2020, my Crohn's decided to mess with me again. I
had a 9 hour operation, which included: Laparotomy - Left Ovarian Cyst removed (Endometriosis)<br />Closure of Colocutaneous fistula<br />38cm small bowel resection<br />Drainage of Sepsis<br />Extensive Adhesiolysis (removal of abdominal adhesions)</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Having IBD is so unpredictable, and can effect you mentally as well as physically, but, it has made me
even stronger! Even though my Crohn's is so extreme I will never stop being
positive that there will be a better future, and I will continue to spread
awareness to help others.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy4qACBga5jZYW6iWomi0369saSB7_4FwNCGzO5Hcsd4py9Sam1iC1YL5QOWOs2oCdgUs2-KisExfklEBIMsgPIyLLgQKTw9fc42s9FrowJqTRlSFj9orqn1asdEwIDPvOSLQAMRuCyrV/s736/126946182_201253688222604_6833230749756196434_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="552" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYy4qACBga5jZYW6iWomi0369saSB7_4FwNCGzO5Hcsd4py9Sam1iC1YL5QOWOs2oCdgUs2-KisExfklEBIMsgPIyLLgQKTw9fc42s9FrowJqTRlSFj9orqn1asdEwIDPvOSLQAMRuCyrV/w300-h400/126946182_201253688222604_6833230749756196434_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-32080032251725762102020-12-04T08:24:00.001+00:002020-12-04T08:24:02.610+00:00Crohn's & Colitis awareness week | Mary's story<p>Starting in high school, every
morning I would wake up with horrible gut pains. I just skipped breakfast and
left my pants unbuttoned until the pain subsided and went about my day. Years
in I was always told by doctors it was IBS, Gastroenteritis, eat better, lose
weight, etc...</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">In 2010 I started getting serious
about my health and lost 70 pounds by early 2011. With this amazing, hard-earned weight loss came a sudden onset of anaemia and knee effusion. I had my
knees drained 7 times in 6 months, but RA runs in my family so my orthopaedist
was certain that was the cause.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">My 30th birthday came and my wish
came true, I found out I was pregnant with my second child. I suffered a
miscarriage at 9 to 10 weeks. A couple months after my miscarriage I went to
the ER because I had unbearable gut pain. I thought it was somehow residual
from the miscarriage. They did scans and blood tests, told me I was still anaemic
and that I had a severely inflamed ileum. They asked if I had ever been checked
for Crohn's. I told them what doctors had been telling me for years. I went to
a GI a couple of weeks later and they ruled out Celiac, and scheduled me for
biopsies with endoscopy and colonoscopy which ultimately confirmed I have
moderate to severe Crohn's Disease. It
has most likely been going on since high school and for whatever reason, the
extreme dieting I did triggered a very bad flare.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I got started on Remicade because
I explained to the GI I wanted another baby eventually. The Remicade infusions
were life-saving for me and I even had another baby while on Remicade in 2012.
There were some complications, but not from the treatment. In 2015 I had a
major flare, only to discover I had an obstruction and needed a resection.
During my surgery they discovered my gall bladder was covered in scarring and
needed removal as well. I remember waking up from that surgery like it was the
worst physical pain of my life. It was horrible, and worst of all, it was on my
daughter's birthday.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwA9wVCLWqDNtNNdjVXrEJ5JkjMCgE4Ku5dewOXAcuYLm3wtIsosiO8sMCHoFiVIFyYBkVTsZ1KMs4BkYfYLfrmKXtleRc8df3TTQz7TOgZc4zQ3iERuddrTXuZm5qJvhw480isPIwMQJg/s750/1604390803081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwA9wVCLWqDNtNNdjVXrEJ5JkjMCgE4Ku5dewOXAcuYLm3wtIsosiO8sMCHoFiVIFyYBkVTsZ1KMs4BkYfYLfrmKXtleRc8df3TTQz7TOgZc4zQ3iERuddrTXuZm5qJvhw480isPIwMQJg/s320/1604390803081.jpg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">Fast forward to a couple of years ago,
my inflammation was getting bad again and I was flaring more... The Remicade
was no longer working and despite the use of Imuran, I had created antibodies
to work against the Remicade.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I've now been on Stelara for 2
years and I've had 2 flares. The most recent biopsies from August show new
scarring and inflammation and I'm starting to build up antibodies again.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">The fear is always there that I'll
have another resection and have to try another treatment. I have found
Intermittent Fasting helps me feel better with inflammation and less guilty
when I don't eat because I'm afraid of the aftermath.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vMcRj_ajfVxuZdhESxpoTl2R9EQobxn3xHWA0_Mgw6LWetTYe-TnD7fmdnHZjVNiBKL1Vd4j2BLbjv0f5TdEb1bPxL9jWl0gQBofbCRNw-ptE9I8DWWhe_4JmEka28bccyiFrDgC5XtW/s602/127725433_196204158747612_1925775352512145854_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5vMcRj_ajfVxuZdhESxpoTl2R9EQobxn3xHWA0_Mgw6LWetTYe-TnD7fmdnHZjVNiBKL1Vd4j2BLbjv0f5TdEb1bPxL9jWl0gQBofbCRNw-ptE9I8DWWhe_4JmEka28bccyiFrDgC5XtW/s320/127725433_196204158747612_1925775352512145854_n.jpg" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I cook and have my kids eat
similar to me most days because I am scared for their future health. If I give
them the knowledge and tools now, maybe they'll handle it a little better than
I am. I am on many medications in addition to the Stelara, including Medical
Marijuana and 75% of the time everything helps as it should when it should... I
won't lie, I have moments where I decide a plate of wings or bowl of Thai is
worth the risk lol. It helps knowing other Crohn's Warriors have some of the
same struggles and I'm grateful for groups and social media platforms that
allow us to share with others so maybe people will understand that this is not
just a "pooping disease".</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">I'm a single mom of 2 amazing kids.
I work 40+ hours a week and I run out of spoons daily because I basically have
no choice. My kids are very patient and understanding and help when necessary,
my mom lives with us so she and I work together to take care of each other and
my children. I do have my "village" of amazing friends and family who
are there at the drop of a hat when I need them so I'm incredibly lucky <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif;">❤❤❤</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_H_L3c3BUrPSED6GUQq1SN2o8yVv_rlU3j7lCWUMcgDcLi5KMH_Ms0C6wFi27ntY0-HFUgfQ0EXasWxtHQsoB8uWsBV7lQIYa9s7F7wsduxR2LkSmLHIc2PqK7i7oYfzcaLOQ2WrKI06U/s642/127431597_129256762319557_3690621790742612297_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="642" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_H_L3c3BUrPSED6GUQq1SN2o8yVv_rlU3j7lCWUMcgDcLi5KMH_Ms0C6wFi27ntY0-HFUgfQ0EXasWxtHQsoB8uWsBV7lQIYa9s7F7wsduxR2LkSmLHIc2PqK7i7oYfzcaLOQ2WrKI06U/s320/127431597_129256762319557_3690621790742612297_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif;"><br /></span><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-24220316549728078632020-12-03T08:00:00.010+00:002020-12-03T08:00:02.564+00:00Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Week | Jack's story<p>Starting a new job teaching secondary school science back in
September 2018, I lost almost 20kg (44lbs) in the space of a few months. The GP visits
were endless. Knowing I’d been teaching in China over the summer, the doctors
guessed it was a bug. Courses of antibiotics didn’t help, so it was decided
maybe it was a parasite. I pictured some worm-like monster giving me the runs
and couldn’t wait to be rid of it. But three more courses of another antibiotic
later, and I was no better. In fact, I was getting worse.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Eventually, a colonoscopy produced a diagnosis: “You have
ulcerative colitis.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Soon, I was on prednisolone and losing blood 30-40 times in a
24 hour period. New Year in 2019 was spent in A&E. I was sent away with a higher
dose of steroids. The result? No improvement whatsoever.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">One week later I was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital, and
little did I realise it would soon become a second home, with five lengthy
admissions to come throughout 2019 and 2020. After failing trials with IV steroids, Infliximab, and Tofacitinib, I had my colon removed in July 2019 and
the raging rectum followed in September 2020. Now I have a permanent
stoma and the so-called barbie bum, which I prefer to think of as an action
man ass.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Throughout the illness, writing has kept me sane. On the
highest doses of steroids, I was awake 20-22 hours a day. At my mum’s
suggestion, I wrote Sh*t Happens, sometimes known as Around the World in
80 Dumps a Day; a comedic account of some of the embarrassing situations IBD can
put us in. It was published chapter by chapter on my <a href="http://jeturleywriting.co.uk/sht-happens/" target="_blank">website</a> throughout 2019-20. Season one details
public poo-problems, stinky relationships, and my struggles obtaining a
diagnosis, up until surgery. The response was great, so I'm currently penning
season two and I've also since produced an audiobook edition of the first
season!</p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I also entered an unpublished chapter about teaching with a
stoma bag into the International Perito Prize, which looks for short stories on
the theme of inclusion and diversity. To my surprise, it was shortlisted and
will soon be published in the 2020 Perito Anthology!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwpejaHK2CEzF11r5VVuyODXQ3aOHegegt-WvZyYgybCJUWdvAAsQMkDUjuQuFZ6frFZt_Wk0f9bIIbrOXDU_If2a0piA5FSgCjuHfKRrphUg41IzqBX3Y6betwmdhlwOWSDaEVnFPme4/s853/125921387_2778472102472411_1802495804725646054_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwpejaHK2CEzF11r5VVuyODXQ3aOHegegt-WvZyYgybCJUWdvAAsQMkDUjuQuFZ6frFZt_Wk0f9bIIbrOXDU_If2a0piA5FSgCjuHfKRrphUg41IzqBX3Y6betwmdhlwOWSDaEVnFPme4/w225-h400/125921387_2778472102472411_1802495804725646054_n.jpg" title="Jack Turley in an IBDSuperHeroes face mask" width="225" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-88854984830240101152020-12-01T08:00:00.002+00:002020-12-01T08:00:01.996+00:00Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Week | Kelly's story<p>My name is Kelly and I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in
March 2017.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;"><b>So, when did I know something was really wrong?</b></h4><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I had suffered from mouth ulcers for most of my adult life
and had lots of stomach issues which was put down to IBS.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">In 2016 things became much worse and I was making more
frequent and urgent trips to the bathroom, I had severe stomach pain on a
regular basis and I had blood and mucous in my stools, as well as undigested
food.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">On the worst days, I was going to the toilet up to 20 times a
day if not more and I was having accidents as a result. As a grown woman this
was highly embarrassing and soul-destroying. I had multiple appointments which
was again put down to severe IBS and was treated as such.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Things didn’t improve and by Christmas of 2016 I weighed 7
stone and I felt a shadow of my former self – after an ultrasound scan only
showing an inflamed liver I was referred to a Gastro Consultant. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">He listened to my concerns, I also noted that my mother died
from stomach cancer – at the time he just wanted to put my mind at ease that it
was nothing as serious. <o:p></o:p></p>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">The diagnosis</h4><p class="MsoNormal">I was sent for a colonoscopy in early 2017 where they found
ulceration in my Terminal Ileum, the nurse said it look like Crohn’s disease
(I’d never even heard of it before), but I would need to wait for the histology
results back from the biopsies they took to be sure.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">8 weeks later my results weren’t back but I was so unwell my
consultant agreed that from the photos it was Crohn’s disease.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I was put on a multitude of medications at the start, mainly
an 8-week course of steroids to calm things down and then maintenance drugs.
Many medications didn’t work for me until I found a balance of Azathioprine and
Amgevita - fortnightly Injections.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFnifBkPUbDdTUxxvwKGwDk2FyMULgmuqj1cZLrWRZ4AYRZa4zaoeY5x3KjUAPrEXcLkAaV0qvMig2AIb93odoL895Pkzz-uGyEKfysr8u3XpKyFl14IB3K3YOyjCyNeDXXgfWcrzK-No/s1290/126327203_1035580556938583_6896368637465497957_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1290" data-original-width="970" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDFnifBkPUbDdTUxxvwKGwDk2FyMULgmuqj1cZLrWRZ4AYRZa4zaoeY5x3KjUAPrEXcLkAaV0qvMig2AIb93odoL895Pkzz-uGyEKfysr8u3XpKyFl14IB3K3YOyjCyNeDXXgfWcrzK-No/s320/126327203_1035580556938583_6896368637465497957_n.jpg" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNormal">My injections have really helped give me back my spark and
lessened my symptoms so that some days I even feel like a normal human being
again. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>What IBD has taught me</b></p><p class="MsoNormal">My diagnosis has definitely taught me that I have to focus
on the good days and to be kinder to myself on the bad days. Taking time for
myself is not failing or being selfish. And, Acceptance was the biggest key for
dealing with my illness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Living with IBD has many challenges but I have embraced my
new normal and haven’t given up on loving life.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlH-vqx6Xp9ZF3lJ6HUmPysdN6p-9Ab-_fGGpbz6kXTvcrohyphenhyphenhghBygD_uzUcoeE91pxpgjUVLPuS2s2ouZJZfsZcV4Q7IUcKL8C5okbPqIbcFVdMGMKfotP0g5tTVuGHF2IqBv_BNQ6m/s1076/126065638_3491829844245751_8602894393189057598_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUlH-vqx6Xp9ZF3lJ6HUmPysdN6p-9Ab-_fGGpbz6kXTvcrohyphenhyphenhghBygD_uzUcoeE91pxpgjUVLPuS2s2ouZJZfsZcV4Q7IUcKL8C5okbPqIbcFVdMGMKfotP0g5tTVuGHF2IqBv_BNQ6m/s320/126065638_3491829844245751_8602894393189057598_n.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-56859796091496104672020-08-31T13:57:00.005+01:002020-08-31T14:12:19.142+01:00Featured Fundraiser | Louise & Stephen Gomm – August 2020<p>This month, we have TWO for the price of one 😀 </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgya4qgdTEFemnegoEmZl3KHQQqaxDNVLHmfSCfGB9PeRT3YslFL8SjWsquY26rxi1K68cOgxt00YenpETP0u0q8TShNpO8wESFhuYfE-CkgprbjY51k7VRwBJs9QEvyoD22EFVrW4PKoDT/s2048/Mr+and+Mrs+CC.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1725" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgya4qgdTEFemnegoEmZl3KHQQqaxDNVLHmfSCfGB9PeRT3YslFL8SjWsquY26rxi1K68cOgxt00YenpETP0u0q8TShNpO8wESFhuYfE-CkgprbjY51k7VRwBJs9QEvyoD22EFVrW4PKoDT/w345-h410/Mr+and+Mrs+CC.jpg" width="345" /></a></div><p>Stephen is part of the #IBDSuperHeroes team; he is an admin on the <a href="www.facebook.com/groups/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Facebook support group</a>, AND he creates all of our videos! Louise is his super talented wife 😍 so they have been working together as the ultimate dream team this month!</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">So, here's a little bit more about what they are<span style="color: red;"> </span>doing and why!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Tell us about your fundraiser! What are you doing?</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">For our fundraiser, we decided to make face masks and sell
them for donations to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/" target="_blank">Cure Crohn's Colitis</a> via IBDSuperheroes.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Why did you choose to do THIS as a fundraiser? What inspired
you?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">My wife, Louise, was bought a new sewing machine by her
sister. She has been making bunting to go in our rabbit houses and then decided that she would attempt to make face
masks for us. She enjoyed it so much that she thought it might be a good idea
to make them for donations to Cure Crohn's Colitis. After a few different designs and encouragement
from me and the other admin from the IBDSuperHeroes group, the idea became reality.<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b>Why did you choose to raise funds for #IBDSuperHeroes/Cure
Crohn’s Colitis?</b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal">I have been an admin for IBDSuperHeroes for over 4 years and have
Crohn's disease, so I have been raising funds for Cure Crohn's Colitis since then. It's a no
brainer as 100% of donations go to research as no one involved in the
charity takes a wage!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">A huge THANK
YOU to Stephen and Louise for their continued efforts 👏</p><p class="MsoNormal">The masks have been <i>really</i> popular, so Louise has been a busy bee! They've sourced fabrics when people have requested something they don't already have, and have truly gone above and beyond! </p><p class="MsoNormal">Masks are made to order and cost £4.50 each (includes postage). If you would like one, just drop us a message on Instagram/<a href="www.facebook.com/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, with a screenshot of your donation, which
fabric you want, and your address - <a href="www.justgiving.com/fundraising/IBDSuperHeroesCureCC" target="_blank">Donate here</a>! </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Fabric options can be found on our social media channels, or we can send them via direct message!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">If you have been inspired to do
some fundraising of your own, head over to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/donate/">Cure Crohn’s Colitis</a> to
find out how! If you choose raise funds through JustGiving, we would love it if
you would <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/companyteams/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">join our team</a>! Then, YOU may be our next featured
fundraiser! </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;"><o:p></o:p></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6763226062328539037.post-64661043934698046632020-08-11T15:38:00.003+01:002021-08-25T11:20:55.890+01:00Face masks for charitable donations <p>We're SUPER pleased to announce that we have face masks available for a £4.50 charitable donation! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3KV6CHLLs2FzqqmrDjCGWGrCB4q9jc5WNCpAweRtWOmjZ-LeyO9EkE9Ge6aUIAh6MexjBzVH6A0-Pv1dkd6fJsijSSC7oMIfU4tE1NDf8YWH223LMK03K22KiPtks9nQffRRRqHPA0EK/s2997/Masks.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1049" data-original-width="2997" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl3KV6CHLLs2FzqqmrDjCGWGrCB4q9jc5WNCpAweRtWOmjZ-LeyO9EkE9Ge6aUIAh6MexjBzVH6A0-Pv1dkd6fJsijSSC7oMIfU4tE1NDf8YWH223LMK03K22KiPtks9nQffRRRqHPA0EK/w640-h224/Masks.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our fabulous team member, Stephen, has an even more fabulous wife, Louise! She is making our masks to order, for a donation to our nominated charity, <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/" rel="" target="_blank">Cure Crohn's Colitis</a> (C3).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All of the fabric options available are below, with order instructions. Before that, I just wanted to tell you a little bit about why we chose C3. Most IBD charities use the majority of the donations they receive to fund staff costs and marketing. C3 use every single penny of the donations they receive to <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/category/funded-ibd-research/" target="_blank">fund IBD research</a>, to improve the lives of people with Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. <a href="http://www.curecrohnscolitis.org/about-c3/our-people/" target="_blank">Everyone who supports the running of C3</a> does so voluntarily, and any expenses come out of their own pocket. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, onto the masks!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Masks are all made to order and cost £4.50 each (UK postage only) <span face=""Segoe UI Emoji", sans-serif">💜</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Drop us a message on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IBDSuperHeroes" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ibdsuperheroes" target="_blank">Instagram</a> with a screenshot of your donation, which fabric you want, and your address! <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/IBDSuperHeroesCureCC" target="_blank">Donate here</a>.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Check out the fabrics ⏬</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt21YG62pzGho6gl_ena3Gr__eZiS06oKKvSbcJ6wYhZbXVm2RD1uDvD5bXDAHiIHQ7_CBLaZ7C5phUvzJtiLjilrtlISQsEZQqPXvUknHrAMq2haAeORfHEr3OAXNRewKxyqKlFh5AseY/s2048/Animal.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1912" data-original-width="2048" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt21YG62pzGho6gl_ena3Gr__eZiS06oKKvSbcJ6wYhZbXVm2RD1uDvD5bXDAHiIHQ7_CBLaZ7C5phUvzJtiLjilrtlISQsEZQqPXvUknHrAMq2haAeORfHEr3OAXNRewKxyqKlFh5AseY/w640-h598/Animal.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxPdwmhxS0NTxvCqY9bkFQ7bQT7LG-leJZQlJhWZ3gTfuMNM1PqxfVEx9OnCP9IinW9OjzJtl0uQMu7kbCvW_pyQdK0xSXwo2ViXmY6qsYCXcnQjx3ANFd3mjBA3S4As52gGnlEk4KhbD/s1816/Character.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1816" data-original-width="1816" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAxPdwmhxS0NTxvCqY9bkFQ7bQT7LG-leJZQlJhWZ3gTfuMNM1PqxfVEx9OnCP9IinW9OjzJtl0uQMu7kbCvW_pyQdK0xSXwo2ViXmY6qsYCXcnQjx3ANFd3mjBA3S4As52gGnlEk4KhbD/w640-h640/Character.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzd8QCVjIFBUaHeHWcTQeY_a4X4Gtju0AguCaOqY9Bw_DCA66EWdd_xqOobkSsfxfmSSb31Z0Fx4NEcAJdl16OCCIZuhNb6L5WK6nkGtVDvxbuTTt5K9N3EttJhNoxxSIJqhMzyAP_wXfc/s1728/Christmas.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1728" data-original-width="1728" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzd8QCVjIFBUaHeHWcTQeY_a4X4Gtju0AguCaOqY9Bw_DCA66EWdd_xqOobkSsfxfmSSb31Z0Fx4NEcAJdl16OCCIZuhNb6L5WK6nkGtVDvxbuTTt5K9N3EttJhNoxxSIJqhMzyAP_wXfc/w640-h640/Christmas.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmyn3qyp6dV-6WHrb6_94wRaEsiL1UgN4e4jtdaZdbSw8UiIoJK91qU88-_4DmcHVoKnjso0XPC10xW_qVmRTR25OQGAI8LES7SB6hL0Wtn74cEiEjb1erYyNZiIaCtfwKaDs-uoI9IFQ/s1880/Harry+Potter.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1880" data-original-width="1880" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmyn3qyp6dV-6WHrb6_94wRaEsiL1UgN4e4jtdaZdbSw8UiIoJK91qU88-_4DmcHVoKnjso0XPC10xW_qVmRTR25OQGAI8LES7SB6hL0Wtn74cEiEjb1erYyNZiIaCtfwKaDs-uoI9IFQ/w640-h640/Harry+Potter.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGW7wQdmPm8rqRbbeCOwy41bOAa3Y6MskfkNjTdxzIU2NsPVjsd6moBc-RIr61Yep9Smt_gYEm22kEIjkJ1bd52Wv1Z19QkjQL1bERRpZyu0OIak1O-5KydKwuiZ3jL7kxGBzQdKvkEp/s1964/Pattern.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1962" data-original-width="1964" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCMGW7wQdmPm8rqRbbeCOwy41bOAa3Y6MskfkNjTdxzIU2NsPVjsd6moBc-RIr61Yep9Smt_gYEm22kEIjkJ1bd52Wv1Z19QkjQL1bERRpZyu0OIak1O-5KydKwuiZ3jL7kxGBzQdKvkEp/w640-h640/Pattern.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div><br /><p><br /></p>IBDSuperHeroeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03388325373623060032noreply@blogger.com0