#USA #New York #IBD Awareness #Crohn's & Colitis Foundation #Spill Your Guts

Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Launches Powerful PSA Campaign

In an impactful move to raise awareness about inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation has unveiled its 2026 public service announcement (PSA) campaign titled "Spill Your Guts." This initiative aims to spotlight the real-life experiences of individuals living with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, thereby breaking the stigma associated with these chronic conditions.

The Importance of Addressing IBD

Over one in one hundred Americans are affected by IBD, which encompasses conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases often lead to debilitating symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach discomfort, fatigue, and significant emotional distress, yet many individuals suffer in silence due to the nature of these symptoms. Stigmas surrounding bathroom-related issues can result in misunderstandings that delay diagnosis, treatment, and support.

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation recognizes that real stories can act as powerful tools for change. In the new PSA series, four brave individuals—Rob Nunnery, Sara Levitt, Saxl Rose, and Victoria Tyler—share candid conversations about their daily lives with IBD, highlighting the often-hidden struggles of living with an invisible illness.

Meet the Faces of the Campaign

• - Rob Nunnery, a South African professional pickleball player, opens up about his fight with perianal Crohn's disease and living with a permanent ostomy.
• - Sara Levitt, a Montreal-based model and content creator, bravely discusses her journey with Crohn's disease, emphasizing the importance of seeking help and connecting with others.
• - Saxl Rose, known for his musical collaborations with big names like Paramore and Wiz Khalifa, talks about continuing to pursue his passion while managing the challenges posed by his condition.
• - Victoria Tyler, a patient advocate from Dallas, Texas, shares her experience with ulcerative colitis and the necessity of support for those impacted by IBD.

Their stories serve to humanize the conversation around IBD, inviting others to reflect on their own experiences and encouraging those who are suffering to speak up.

Breaking the Silence

According to Michael Osso, the President and CEO of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, “The more we amplify real stories from people like Rob, Sara, Saxl, and Victoria, the more we help others recognize symptoms, feel less alone, and take the important step of seeking care.” This campaign not only sheds light on the physical hurdles associated with IBD but also addresses the emotional burden that can accompany such conditions.

A Call to Action

As part of this initiative, the Foundation encourages healthcare professionals, patients, and the public to engage in open dialogue about IBD. The new PSA series aims to reduce the stigma associated with these diseases while providing valuable resources for those affected.

The Foundation, in collaboration with Olixir NY, has committed to ongoing education and support, ensuring that anyone impacted by IBD has access to the necessary resources.

For more information about inflammatory bowel disease and the Spill Your Guts campaign, visit www.spillyourguts.org. To arrange interviews with participants or Foundation executives, please reach out via the provided contact information.

In conclusion, this awareness campaign marks a significant step toward addressing the often-overlooked struggles of individuals living with IBD, fostering a sense of community, and encouraging timely medical assistance among those who may be silently suffering.