I ran the Inaugural 13.1 Boston half marathon in June 2010 with the Georgia Chapter of the CCFA Team Challenge. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is an organization dedicated to finding a cure for the 1.4 million Americans who suffer from these debilitating digestive diseases. The Team Challenge program also helps participants raise awareness about the diseases, as many more people may be quietly suffering, too embarrassed to see their doctor for treatment. In order for me to go with the team to Boston to race, I had to raise at least $2,700. Team Challenge raised over $1.8 million with this event. Below you will find facts and information about CCFA. Thank you to everyone who donated!
Who benefits from the money I raised?
The funds raised through Crohn’s & Colitis Team Challenge directly benefit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and support its mission to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The Foundation ranks third among leading health non-profits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, and more than 83 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs. The Foundation consistently meets the standards of organizations that monitor charities, including the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance (give.org) and the American Institute of Philanthropy (charitywatch.org).
Quick Facts
- Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are painful, unpredictable diseases that attack the digestive system.
- Some 1.4 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
- Team Challenge is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s (CCFA) half marathon training program that raises critical dollars for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis research.
- Funds raised directly benefit the CCFA and support its mission to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases.
- CCFA ranks third among leading health non-profits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, and more than 83 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs.
- Your donations are tax deductible
About Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are painful, unpredictable diseases that attack the digestive system. Crohn’s disease may attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, while ulcerative colitis inflames only the large intestine (colon). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery. These illnesses can cause severe complications, including colon cancer in patients with long-term disease. Some 1.4 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, with as many as 150,000 under the age of 18. Most people develop the diseases between the ages of 15 and 35.
Visit the CCFA website to learn more about the diseases.
About CCFA
The funds raised through Crohn’s & Colitis Team Challenge directly benefit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation and support its mission to find cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The Foundation ranks third among leading health non-profits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, and more than 83 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs. The Foundation consistently meets the standards of organizations that monitor charities, including the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance and the American Institute of Philanthropy.
CCFA sponsors research grants and fellowship awards for research on Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The organization’s magazine, “Take Charge”, features articles on, among other things, the latest in biomedical research, new drugs, and CCFA chapter events. CCFA also publishes and distributes brochures to provide information on aspects of living with Crohn’s disease and colitis. The brochures deal with issues such as medications, nutrition, women’s issues, and surgery. Informational guides addressing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are available for children and teenagers, parents, and teachers. CCFA’s chapters offer educational meetings and support groups for patients and families in the communities they serve. CCFA also offers services like the Camp Oasis, a multi-day summer camp program for young people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Visit CCFA.org to learn more about the foundation.
Thank you!
