Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Affecting a Growing Number of Children and Families in the U.S.

NEW YORK, Dec. 1, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The number of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients in the U.S. has now increased to an estimated 1.6 million, according to information presented at the 2014 American College of Gastroenterology Scientific Meeting.*

In an effort to raise awareness for patients and families dealing with IBD, the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) launched a new social media campaign called "Someone You Know" asking patients to share their story using #IBDselfie on their social networks in time for Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Week 2014.

"Awareness Week 2014 gives us the opportunity to shed even more light on what it's like to be an IBD patient," said Richard J. Geswell, President and CEO of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. "With the help of social media, we are creating a platform for our constituents to share their unique stories that can increase awareness and support for research initiatives that lead to better treatments and ultimately cures."

Due to the enactment of Senate Resolution 199, the week of December 1-7 is reserved to encourage all Americans to help find cures for inflammatory bowel diseases and raise support for the now 1.6 million Americans battling Crohn's and ulcerative colitis through awareness and advocacy.

AWARENESS WEEK ACTIVITIES There are a number of ways you can help raise awareness and support the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. All week long, the Great American Cookie Company will be donating 20% of proceeds from all cookies and cookie cakes purchasedin this CCFA collection. Simply shop here and enter promo code: CCFA at checkout.

"We've recently expanded our local business with a national cookie delivery program and website that gives us the ability to partner with non-profit organizations to raise funds. Supporting the CCFA with a timely holiday cookie gifting campaign is a great way for The Great Cookie to kick off our 'Great Cookies for Great Causes' program with an organization with a mission that is so meaningful to our company and our family," said Jason Fruman, owner of the Baltimore-based business and active member of CCFA's Maryland Board.

Monday, December 1

Buy cookies and an Awareness Shirt that you can wear all year long. Also, you can join us for a Twitter chat 4-5 pm EST about managing stress and diet during the holidays using #HappyHolidaysIBD.

Tuesday, December 2

#GivingTuesday is a day designated nationwide to give back. It's a great day to support CCFA during our week. In honor of their daughter, Alex and Patty Funderburg, volunteer leaders and active fundraisers in CCFA's Carolinas Chapter are offering a $5,000 one day match.

Read the original post:
Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis Affecting a Growing Number of Children and Families in the U.S.