14TH Annual Crohn's & Colitis
AWARENESS WEEK
December 1-7, 2025
14TH Annual Crohn's & Colitis
AWARENESS WEEK
December 1-7, 2025
What does IBD really look like? Let's Go There.
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis don't look like one thing. They look like millions of moments — messy, meaningful, and often invisible. It's managing symptoms with quiet strength, Googling late-night questions you don't ask out loud, and knowing every bathroom on your route. It's canceling plans when you need rest, and celebrating the days you can show up.
It's a hospital selfie and a graduation photo — because both are part of the journey. And sometimes, it's the joy of remission — a reminder that peace is possible, and progress is real.
Whether you've been navigating life with IBD for years, were just diagnosed, or are simply seeking to understand it better, this Awareness Week, join us to help show the world what IBD really looks like — and remind others they're not alone in this journey:
Download Our Free Real Life with IBD Guide | Learn More About IBD | Tell Your Story
Download Our Real Life With IBD Guide: Navigate the Highs, Lows, and Everything In-Between
Life with IBD isn't just one story — it's a daily mix of challenges, adjustments, and victories big and small. The Real Life with IBD Guide offers dietitian-approved gut-friendly recipes for the holidays, expert-vetted tips on navigating insurance challenges and finding restrooms, and real-world perspectives to help you face each day prepared and supported.
Fill out the form below to receive the guide!
Download the Real Life with IBD Guide
IBD Looks Like Facing Challenges with Strength and Support
Learn about the latest treatment options and resources for living well with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Whether newly diagnosed or seeking guidance, we’re here with resources and support for every step of your IBD journey.
Advocate to drive change for people with IBD — from increasing federal research funding to expanding access to care and protecting patient rights. Sign our petition calling on Congress to increase funding for IBD research and to accelerate progress in treating IBD.
Sign up for our virtual, in-person, or on-demand educational programs and gain the tools you need to manage your IBD.
IBD Looks Like Your Story
Your story can inspire others and break the stigma around IBD. Submit it at the link below — then share on social using #IBDLooksLike and tag @CrohnsColitisFoundation to help spread the word even further.IBD Looks Like Chasing My Passion While Navigating What Others Don't See
“Touring the world as a musician and #1 recording artist has been a dream come true, but living with Crohn's means every trip takes extra planning. I've learned IBD isn't one-size-fits-all disease, each of us faces different hurdles.”
— Saxl Rose, Musician, and Foundation Social Media Ambassador
IBD Looks Like Breaking Stigma and Prioritizing Mental Health
“I was diagnosed with Crohn's at 14 and later had a permanent ileostomy. For years, I only focused on the physical side, until I realized my mental health mattered just as much. IBD looks like breaking stigma, finding support, and building strength inside and out.”
— Gaylyn Henderson, IBD Patient Advocate, Model, and Foundation Social Media Ambassador
IBD Looks Like Finding My Voice in the Fight for Better Care
“With Crohn's disease, the hardest part isn't always symptoms — it's the battles with insurance. After facing denials and appeals, I shared my story publicly to fight for change. IBD looks like finding strength in advocacy and using your voice to make care better for everyone.”
— Ian Goldstein, Writer and Comedian, and Foundation Social Media Ambassador
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation extends its deepest thanks to our Awareness Week sponsors:
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About Awareness Week: Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Week was created in 2011 by U.S. Senate Resolution 199 and takes place annually from December 1–7.