By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

researching a cure

25th annual Gutsy Walk virtually raising funds for Crohn’s and colitis research

Aug 11, 2020 | 3:16 PM

The 25th annual Gutsy Walk, which raises funds for research into Crohn’s and colitis, as well as awareness about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), has gone virtual this summer.

The event’s official date is August 23, but Crohn’s and Colitis Canada is encouraging participants to take part in activities all month. That includes collectively walking across Canada, about 5,100 kilometres as the crow flies, from Victoria to St. John’s.

“When you donate to Crohn’s and Colitis Canada, you are making a life-altering impact as your donation is driving innovative IBD research,” says Rubina Sajan, Regional Director, Western Canada. “It is thanks to donors from coast-to-coast that we are able to fund projects each year that strengthen Canadian IBD research and brings us closer to cures.”

A 2018 report entitled Impact of IBD in Canada suggests around 270,000 Canadians live with some form of IBD, and that number is expected to reach 400,000 by 2030.

“That is why it is crucial to invest in research that improves quality of life for Canadians living with these chronic diseases,” says Sajan.

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As for coping with COVID-19’s impact on the Gutsy Walk, as well as the everyday lives of patients, she says it’s more important than ever for patients to take charge of their own health.

Ways to manage stress and anxiety whilst social distancing include establishing a daily routine, connecting virtually with family and friends, volunteering for a cause important to you, practicing mindfulness, and staying informed through reliable sources.

“We are one of the top two health charity funders of Crohn’s and colitis research in the world, investing over $130 million in research since 1974, leading to important breakthroughs in genetics, gut microbes, inflammation and cell repair as well as laying the groundwork for new and better treatments,” Sajan adds.

“We are transforming the lives of people affected by Crohn’s and colitis (the two main forms of inflammatory bowel disease) through research, patient programs, advocacy, and awareness.”

The 2018 impact report also found that seniors (65 and over) are the fastest growing group of Canadians with IBD, while 7,000 Canadian children (under 18) also have Crohn’s and/or colitis.

Anyone interested in donating or learning more can visit GutsyWalk.ca.