The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation Announces $1 Million Gift from Larry Sears and Sally Zlotnick Sears to Support Groundbreaking IBD Research

Contact:
Rachel Peifer 
[email protected]

New York, NY – February 18, 2025- The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation today announced a transformative $1 million gift from Larry Sears and Sally Zlotnick Sears. This generous contribution will accelerate critical research initiatives focused on understanding and treating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, affecting 1 in 100 Americans. As a driving force in the development of next-generation treatments and personalized medicine for IBD, the Foundation has invested over $500 million in research since its inception, playing a role in every major research breakthrough and fundamentally transforming the landscape of IBD care and treatment.

The Searses' involvement with the Foundation began nearly 30 years ago after their daughter's diagnosis with Crohn's disease at age 14. They became active participants, attending lectures by IBD researchers, participating in Take Steps walks, and volunteering at the local chapter office in Cleveland. The Foundation also facilitated a meaningful connection between their daughter and another IBD patient, fostering a pen pal relationship that allowed them to share their experiences and navigate similar challenges.

"We are profoundly grateful for Larry and Sally's extraordinary commitment, which propels our mission forward," said Michael Osso, President & CEO of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. "Their support allows us to guide and empower patients and their families throughout their IBD journey and fuels the advancement of next-generation treatments and personalized medicine."

The Searses’ commitment will significantly expand the Foundation’s innovative research programs, including IBD Plexus®. This revolutionary research platform analyzes vast datasets, incorporating advanced AI and machine learning, to accelerate the development of precision medicine strategies and foster collaboration. The Foundation is the only organization bringing together leading scientists, industry, academic centers, healthcare professionals, and patients from around the globe to advise and guide decisions on the most promising areas of IBD research to pursue. Through investments in cutting- edge technologies—such as a noninvasive wearable sweat monitor that detects gut inflammation and an ingestible capsule for targeted treatment—the Foundation takes risks and ventures into uncharted territories in its quest for better treatments and cures, shaping the future of IBD care. 

“Larry and I are honored to contribute to the vital work of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation,” said Sally Zlotnick Sears. “We are hopeful that the research happening today will lead to life-changing discoveries and scientific breakthroughs that will improve the lives of all living with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.”

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic, debilitating conditions characterized by severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. Complications from these diseases—such as strictures, fistulas, and bowel obstructions—often require surgical intervention. With a significant percentage of patients requiring surgery, the need for innovative approaches to treatment and prevention remains critical.

“We believe this partnership with Sally and Larry will pave the way for significant scientific breakthroughs,” Osso remarked. “Their generosity brings us closer to a future where IBD patients can live healthier, more fulfilling lives.”