Am I Alone?

For almost 20 years of my life, I didn't really know anyone my own age with Crohn's disease. I got to talk with anyone who actually understood what I was experiencing, share war stories, or swamp information about different medication.

I always wondered how I would explain to a boyfriend that I had Crohn's. Then I met my husband and around our third date, I decided to share my secret. A secret that affected almost every aspect of my life. I was relieved to learn that his best friend from high school had Crohn's and she was also a nurse. We instantly formed a bond.

Around the same time, I got involved with CCFA's Team Challenge. Over the last three years, I have been fortunate enough to meet several people my age, who have had similar experiences with their disease. It's comforting to know others like me and hear how they overcome Crohn's each day.

During this week's training session, I ran with a fellow mentor, who recently hasn't been feeling 100%. We were able to share our experiences on the same medication. It not only made the run go by fast, but it was nice to hear stories that sound so familiar to my own. And that we were both running to escape.

This is why I love Team Challenge because I am able to meet others and know that I am not alone.

Training Update: The week three group run was cold again. But once we got moving, we warmed up quick. I ended up pounding the pavement for just over 43 minutes. I walked a little, which I was anticipating since I had not worked out at all in 9 days. I'm hoping to get one mid-week training run in, cause I find running once a week is extremely difficult.

Fundraising Update: $250! I'm having a Stella & Dot Jewelry and Wine party fundraiser on Sunday, March 27. 20% of the proceeds will benefit Team Challenge. If you can't make it but would like to purchase jewelry, click here. When promoted for a hostess, type "Erin's Team Challenge Fundraiser."