As it celebrates its 52nd anniversary of identifying and providing resources, support and funding for patients and caregivers while working toward finding a cure for the millions affected by debilitating inflammatory bowel diseases, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation is planning the West Palm Beach Take Steps Walk. The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 2 at FITTEAM Ballpark at 10 a.m.
The 11th annual Take Steps Walk is one of 125 occurring across the country to support the more than 3.1 million Americans who are affected by IBD. The local event features a festival of fun including live entertainment, food, kids’ activities and a full slate of educational materials. Participants are encouraged to create teams or walk with a friend and enjoy numerous fundraising goal prizes.
“Take Steps is not only for those affected by a digestive disease but also for family and friends to celebrate the efforts that have been put forth toward finding a cure,” said Katie Keohane, executive director of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation South Florida Chapter. “This event offers opportunities for both corporate sponsors and for volunteers to join the hundreds of participants in making a difference. I am proud to share that millions of dollars are raised each year during the countrywide event. The event is a true support for all who attend, including friends and loved ones of those living with digestive diseases, and provides valuable information, workshops and tons of fun.”
In addition to the Take Steps Walk, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation offers a number of events throughout the year and social season. Funds raised are put directly to work in practical ways such as the IBD Help Center (1-888-694-8872). With a single phone call, a team of trained information specialists can help patients find specific resources, obtain referrals to other organizations for assistance, and better understand their health insurance coverage.
Honored Hero for the event is 14-year-old Hayden Deese, a Palm Beach Gardens resident who knows first-hand the issues associated with ulcerative colitis. Being one of the youngest patients to have his colon removed completely, he is dedicated to help CCF raise funding to find a cure.
To register for the walk, visit www.cctakesteps.org/westpalmbeach. For more information, call Anna Wishneff at (561) 218-2929 or visit www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
