Meet our 2026 New England Take Steps Adult Honored Hero!

Alexandra “Lexi” Concannon was first diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2017 during a visit to Boston University School of Law, where she would later graduate in 2020. What began as a sudden and unexpected diagnosis soon became a defining part of her life.

Initially, Lexi responded well to treatment, experiencing several years of stability. But when her disease resurfaced, it did so aggressively. The flare-ups were more severe than ever and unresponsive to medication, forcing Lexi into a cycle of treatments that offered little relief.

“I cycled through treatment after treatment, enduring side effects almost as bad as the disease itself,” Lexi said. “When my doctor finally suggested that surgery was an option, it was a relief—a relief from the suffering, from the dead ends of failed treatments, and from the endless waiting for the day I would finally get better.”

In 2024, Lexi underwent surgery and now describes living with an ostomy as “getting my life back, one step at a time.” What once felt like an ending has become a turning point toward healing and reclaiming her future.

Now named the Adult Honored Hero at this year’s Take Steps walk, Lexi sees this moment as deeply meaningful. “It feels like closing a chapter and stepping fully into the next one,” she said.

Like many individuals living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Lexi remembers the isolation she felt at the time of her diagnosis. Finding the Foundation—and now having the opportunity to share her story—has transformed that experience into one of connection and purpose.

“This disease can be isolating, embarrassing, and exhausting,” Lexi said, “but it does not define you.”

Like many women living with IBD, Lexi has also faced the added uncertainties the disease can bring when thinking about starting a family. Through every challenge, she has remained determined to move forward with strength and optimism, using her experience to empower others navigating similar paths.

Lexi is proud to stand alongside the IBD community at Take Steps, raising awareness, breaking stigma, and supporting efforts to find a cure. What began as a personal battle has become a broader mission to ensure that no one facing IBD feels alone.

The Take Steps walk will take place on Saturday, June 6, at North Point Park. Community members are invited to join Lexi and others in the fight against Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Sign up here or support Lexi's team: UCan do it!