Health Minister Terry Lake announced $150,000 to help families living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, when he participated in the 19th annual Gutsy Walk fundraiser for Crohn’s and Colitis Canada BC-Yukon Division.

“We’re determined to help people living with Crohn’s and colitis with this investment, which will support educational symposiums, information and outreach,” said Lake. “We want to continue to work together with Crohn’s and Colitis Canada BC-Yukon Division to help improve the lives of British Columbians living with these diseases.”

In British Columbia, Crohn’s and colitis affects more than 25,000 people, and one in every 150 Canadians are affected by these chronic diseases.

“It’s a tough road for people with Crohn’s and colitis, but I know we can make things better,” said Lindee David, CEO, Crohn’s and Colitis Canada. “With this funding, we will be able to improve access to education for British Columbians living with these chronic diseases, and expand our research capabilities.”

Having Crohn’s and colitis can be stigmatizing, particularly for young people when first diagnosed. Effects from the conditions are severe and unpleasant. They include abdominal pain, cramping, bathroom urgency, including diarrhea or bloody stools with colitis, nausea and vomiting, diminished appetite and weight loss, fever, anemia and fatigue.

That’s why the national non-profit organization Crohn’s and Colitis Canada are focusing their efforts on advancing medical research, educating the public, and raising awareness. The Government of British Columbia is providing funding to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada BC- Yukon Division to help them continue to improve research capacity and provide education and resources to those living with these chronic diseases. The funding will also allow Crohn’s and Colitis Canada BC-Yukon Division to host educational symposiums for youth affected by Crohn’s and colitis.

The Gutsy Walk is Crohn’s and Colitis Canada’s largest fundraising event, during which they hope to raise more than $3 million across 59 local walk sites in just one day. The Gutsy Walk began as the Heel’N’Wheel-a-thon in 1996 in 24 communities, and has since grown to 59 communities across Canada, raising a total of $26 million that has been invested in efforts to find a cure for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and to improve the lives of children and adults affected by these chronic diseases.

Crohn’s and colitis are disorders that cause the intestines to become inflamed and ulcerated. This is caused by an abnormal response to the body’s immune system. There is no known cure.

Learn more:

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada:  visit www.crohnsandcolitis.ca

Media Contacts:

Kristy Anderson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Health
250 818-6510 (mobile)