Introducing 2026 Rising Community Leader Kyle Weil

When Kyle Weil was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2009, he had no idea how much this condition would impact his life. Now 28, Kyle is being recognized as the Rising Community Leader in IBD at A Gutsy Gathering for Crohn’s & Colitis for his commitment to advocacy, community building, and improving the lives of others living with IBD. 
 
Like many young patients, Kyle’s journey with his Crohn’s disease was not easy. Kyle says his diagnosis taught him independence and self-reliance from a young age. It also showed him the importance of caring for his health, embracing vulnerability, and leaning on his community for support. Most importantly, it gave him a mindset that encourages him to challenge expectations and pursue the life he wants to live. As he put it, “a lot of people in life will tell me what I can’t do,” but he has remained committed to proving them otherwise. 

Kyle’s connection to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation started early. As a child, he attended Camp Oasis, participated in Take Steps walks yearly, and spoke at fundraising events.  While living in Denver, he became involved with the IBD and chronic disease community through the Denver Commission with People for Disabilities. Kyle was the youngest elected commissioner, and later the youngest elected chair in the commission’s history. In this position, he helped shape disability policy in the area and advocated for disability and chronic disease communities across the Denver metro area.  
 

Since moving to Boston, Kyle has continued his extensive involvement with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s New England Chapter through speaking at corporate events, the GALA, and the annual Young Professionals’ event. These events have strengthened his connections with fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates who all share a passion for improving the future of IBD care. Kyle gives credit to the Foundation in helping him build meaningful connections within the IBD community. “To know I am contributing to this grand mission means a lot to me,” he says. Today, Kyle is focused on combining his professional interests with his experience as an IBD patient. Kyle’s goal is to build solutions that make living with IBD more manageable and less isolating. 

Kyle acknowledges how a new diagnosis can feel overwhelming and uncertain, and he wants others to know that those feelings are valid. He believes that with time patients can manage their condition, build a strong support system, and live a fulfilling life. To anyone living with IBD, Kyle offers words of encouragement. “You’re not alone in this, even if it feels like you are. There is an entire community of people who understand what you’re going through and who are rooting for you.”

Support Kyle’s fundraising effort.