I am setting up this fundraiser for a close friend of mine, Norelle. She has had many health complications over the years and has now come to the point where she unfortunately has to have a very serious surgery on July 15th. This is her 16th surgery, and this is all due to her Crohn’s Disease. She has come to a point where her day-to-day life is complicated and she cannot wait any longer for this procedure. She will be out of work for 2 months, possibly longer, and she will need help financially with all medical bills, rent, utilities, etc. Norelle is a hard worker and an amazing person. Anything you can help with is appreciated, or just a simple share can help also.
What is Crohn’s Disease?
Crohn’s Disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel/autoimmune disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. Essentially, the body is attacking itself, due to thinking the intestinal tract is foreign. Crohn’s disease can sometimes cause life-threatening complications. Crohn’s disease cannot be cured. Medications such as steroids and immunosuppressants are used to slow the progression of the disease. If these aren’t effective, a patient may require surgery. Additionally, patients with Crohn’s disease may need to receive regular screening for colorectal cancer due to increased risk.
Norelle’s Story
The day I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, I remember like it was yesterday. I was 14 years old at the time, and in that moment, I knew my life was about to change forever. While most kids my age were hanging out with friends and joining clubs, I was in the hospital getting tests run left and right in the hopes of finding some relief. Hospital visits, surgery, and treatment plans were my new normal. After years of fighting this disease, I still haven’t given up despite all I’ve been through. This past year has definitely been the hardest due to all of the failed medications, the side effects of Crohn’s, and doctor switch-ups. However, now I am able to have hope once again with my current team of doctors and surgeons to help get me through this rough patch and be able to live my life more to the fullest again.
