There’s no delicate way to talk about poop.
We all poop and when things go wrong with the pooper it’s not a nice conversation to have with, well, anyone.
Those living with Crohn’s and Colitis are asking area residents to support their cause at the Vanderhoof and Prince George Gutsy Walk for Crohn’s and Colitis Canada to raise awareness and funds on June 5 at Caledonia Nordic Ski Club at Otway.
This year’s honorary chair is Sonja Krug who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 17 years old and now, it’s 29 years later and through medication she’s been in remission for the last nine years.
“I consider a person healthy if they can go where they want when they want and stay as long as they want,” Krug said.
Over the years Krug said she’s had several surgeries and now has a permanent ileostomy.
“Even though this disease has greatly affected my life, there are beneficial life lessons that I have learned,” Krug said. “I was lucky to have tremendous support from my parents, siblings and especially my husband. I joined my first support group with the Vanderhoof/Prince George Chapter and it’s been just fantastic.”
Krug said her family has been amazing but there’s nothing like the understanding that comes from living it – like those attending the monthly support group.
“Like my mom says they don’t truly understand how I feel and what it’s like,” Krug said.
“So to talk to people that really understand – and they’re like ‘oh, yeah, uh huh,’ and they completely understand what you’re going through – that normalizes it and then you can ask them what they did and it can be very small tweaks that’s gunna make your life so much better. It’s the understanding, it’s the humour and people just get you and that really makes me wanna stay with the support group.”
The diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has evolved since I was initially diagnosed, Krug added.
“With the research that Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is conducting, it will change for the betterment of everyone living with these diseases moving forward,” she added. “I am proud to be a part of the Gusty Walk and to help raise funds towards this goal.”
The Vanderhoof + Prince George Gutsy Walk will be combined this year and happens in person on Sunday, June 5 at the Caledonia Nordic Ski Club.
Bring teams, friends and family from 10 a.m. to noon to help raise awareness and funds to support those living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
During the event there will be a DJ, snacks, face painting, and a scenic walk through the beautiful Otway trails. If unable to walk, everyone is welcome to join in the fun and to show support for those living with Crohn’s or colitis.
People can register for this year’s Gutsy Walk at https://crohnsandcolitiscanada.akaraisin.com/ui/GutsyWalk2022/g/32785
And for details about the local support group click on Support-for-You.
