Marathon #16 – 26.2 for Mary Beth
Mary Beth’s story:
Mary Beth was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease in 1985 at the age of 9 years old after being very sick for several months. She weighed 49 pounds at the time and was immediately admitted to Boston Children’s Hospital and spent a month there, through her 10th birthday. She spent the rest of her pre-teen and teen years in and out of the hospital, on prednisone and other medications and ultimately had her large intestine removed with ostomy surgery at age 19.
Because there is no cure for Crohn’s Disease, her disease returned shortly after and she needed to have medication and a hospital stay in her 20’s. She then had a 15 year period of relative health during which time she discovered Team Challenge. She went to an information session at the Brookline library in 2009 and joined the Team Challenge Napa/Sonoma team that summer and was a mentor and the Pasta Party speaker for the Boston team in 2010.
However, she suffered a serious relapse of her Crohn’s this past year (2018) and she spent 5 days in the hospital. She is now on Humira and giving herself injections but is very optimistic and hopeful for a cure in the future!
“This past spring I had a serious relapse. My long dormant Crohn’s returned and I spent 5 days in the hospital in April. I was very sick but I am so fortunate that I have a great treatment team and an amazing support system but still…it has been a BIG adjustment and a sad disappointment. But that is the nature of the beast. Crohn’s has no conscience and it sneaks back when you may least expect it. Except…you always expect it.”
“It infects toddlers. It sickens elderly people. The other shoe drops. There is no known cure. I am SO grateful for every strong healthy day. I am starting biologic treatment, Humira, and have to learn to inject myself. I will say here that I am well aware that many people with other illnesses inject themselves with medication daily and it gives me strength. I’m in great spirits and am psyching myself up for this new chapter in my journey.”
“Times have changed so much in 15 years and I am grateful for options….but we need a cure. There are MANY diseases that need cures but for me and my friends…we want to worry a little less…be in pain a little less…be able to live “normal” lives. If you know someone with Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis….give them a hug or tell them you love them. And if you encounter someone who is raising funds for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation…donate if you can….every little bit gets us closer! Thank you!”
Running 26.2 for Mary Beth!
Marathon 16 – Recap
26.2 FOR YOU 