Why I Keep Running...Why I Try Not to Complain...

Hey guys,

I just wanted to pass this story along that I received from my CCFA Chapter...It's a story that helped put a lot of things in perspective for me and it reminds me why I am fundraising for this cause. There are a lot of people that need help and I hope to provide any support I can...

hospital is bad news

I am 11 years old and was diagnosed with crohns on April 2nd of 2009, and diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at at a later date. I had my first flare up in October of 2008, but thought it was just the stomach bug. Then on march 17th I had another flare up, with constant bleeding like in October. On March 30th I went to the doctors, my pediatrician got worried about me and sent me to another doctor on april 2nd, my gi doctor now. The next day on april 3rd I had an endooscopy and colonoscopy,that day I was officially diagnosed with crohns. I have been taking several medicine at different times, but right now I am taking 6mp, folic acid, and iron. On February 8th this year I had to go to the hospital but was told I was coming home the next day. That turned into 2 and a half weeks later. While in the hospital, I had constant blood work, sugar checks, x-rays, and had to get a pickline put in where it gives you your nutrition. I was on complete bowel rest meaning I couldn't eat or drink anything, except have ice. My friends came to visit me, sent me cards, and texted me/called me. I constantlly cried that I was home sick, and missed my family, 3 dogs, and friends. On february 25th I was finally relased from the hospital, and was surprised to go to florida on Feb 26th but was told I couldn't anymore. My heart dropped, but instead we went April 16th til april 24th. I got a wish vacation from Starlight to go swimming with the dolphins in florida, so I am going june 24 til june30. I love animals and was ecstatic about that. The vacation is completely free for us, we dont even have to pay for gas, airfaire, or to get souvineers, or restaurants, or parks, and off course discovery cove, and seaworld are free when I go in june!

This story and others like it may be found at http://www.ccfacommunity.org/Default.aspx. Please check this out if you can...I'm trying to raise any awareness I can. Crohn's sucks...