New England Chapter News

For most teenagers, life is measured in school days, sports, and time with friends. For Jonathan Viliott, it has also been measured in doctor’s visits, uncertainty, and a diagnosis that changed everything.

Diagnosed with severe ulcerative colitis at a young age, Ava Aponte has spent much of her childhood navigating challenges far beyond her years.

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.

Is Your Teen Navigating Life with Crohn’s or Colitis? Participate in a Paid, Non-Invasive Research Study

Most people do not think about what they need until it is urgent. At eleven, living in constant pain, I needed a diagnosis. My doctor suspected Crohn’s disease, and the only way to confirm it was through a capsule endoscopy of my digestive tract.

This new Nurses Guide, designed to support school nurses in caring for students living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). It offers accessible, practical tools and easy-to-reference information on topics like recognizing and managing flare-ups, supporting medication routines, nutrition considerations, and the importance of individualized health plans, such as 504 plans.

"You will become stronger over time and realize that you will be ok." Says Neal Mohimen, a 14-year-old from Wayland, MA.

“I would never consider myself a Healthcare Professional Hero, but I am truly honored to receive this award. The true heroes are my patients, who deal with these conditions daily. I am always amazed by their courage and perseverance.”