The Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) community had a big showing in last year’s WEGO Health Awards, in fact, there were quite a few Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis patients that walked away winners! There are approximately 10 million people living with IBD worldwide, and we’re here to showcase just a few today, showing you all the inspiring things patients can do when they share their stories with the world.
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Kayla and Andrea Abramowitz
Crohn’s Patient Leader
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
“Kayla Cares 4 Kids brings happiness to kids with chronic illness, many of whom cannot speak up for themselves. We talk to lawmakers on a local, state and national level, because we see how our advocacy work makes a difference for our family and many families around us.”
Luke Escombe
Crohn’s Patient Leader
Website | Facebook | Twitter
“I lived with Crohn’s Disease for 15 years in silence and it got me nowhere. I was scared to open my mouth because I thought I would depress people or gross them out. That’s what IBD does, it builds a prison of fear and shame around you that stops you living your life, even after the physical symptoms subside. I advocate because I know the inside of that prison, and I want to break as many people out of it as possible. My way of doing that is through music and humour. Nothing defeats fear like laughter!”
Erin Goodwin
Ulcerative Colitis and Ostomy Patient Leader
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
“As an ostomate, in the beginning, I struggled both mentally and physically. I felt unbelievably alone and believed I was the only young person with an ostomy. I didn’t want anyone to ever feel that way. There are so many things I have learned over the last ten years, several of which I believe could have saved me literal blood and tears. So I decided that by putting myself out there I could help others feel less alone and more equipped earlier on in their journey, therefore saving them some of those tears.”
If you’re feeling inspired by these top Patient Leaders, you should join our network!
When you join our Patient Leader Network you’re first to know about the new and exciting things we’re doing at WEGO Health. Not only will we reach out to you when we have paid opportunities in your condition area, but we’ll also connect you with other Patient Leaders so you can share ideas and help each other amplify your messages. What are you waiting for? Join today!
Did you miss our last #FollowFriday? You can catch up here!
