PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Stacey Clark,
(516) 222-5530, sclark@ccfa.org
KENNY MEYER OF EAST ROCKAWAY HAS A REASON TO BE THANKFUL THIS THANKSGIVING
Kenny joined Team Challenge to get top-notch training to complete a half marathon while raising funds for a cure for Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis
(November 20, 2009) – Completing a half marathon is something Kenny Meyer never thought he would ever accomplish, especially after a year of undergoing surgery to avoid cancer at age 34.
Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis 11 years ago, it was not until Kenny was forced to leave his job, resign as a volunteer firefighter, and put school on hold that he realized the severity of this disease. Last year, at age 34, Kenny was forced to have his entire large intestine removed after discovering pre-cancerous cells during a routine colonoscopy. Shortly after, he had his second surgery and was able to then begin the recovery process. Kenny is among 1.4 million Americans who suffer from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and are often left with no other option but surgery to live a normal life.
Almost one year after his second surgery and only weeks after his 35th birthday, Kenny will celebrate his health by completing the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s half marathon training program, Team Challenge. Approximately 16 weeks ago, Kenny and his fiancé joined the program, and have been training to participate in their first half marathon. They have also committed to raise critical funds to find cures for both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, a cause that is quite close to their hearts.
“I am running to give hope to those who suffer from Crohn’s and colitis because I know the pain of living with ulcerative colitis. I know the depression, panic and sadness that come with these diseases. I hope in some way to inspire others to not give up. In my case I was faced with cancer after 11 years of battling colitis, and in the end had to have major surgery to save my life. I thought this was the end, but to my surprise it was a new beginning. On December 6th along with my fiancé and best friend I will have the honor of crossing the finish line with thousands of people all with the same goal, to put an end to Crohn’s and colitis, once and for all!”
Team Challenge is the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s half marathon training program. This exciting new fundraising program trains participants to run or walk a half marathon while helping the Foundation raise funds to find a cure for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. In exchange for this commitment, the Foundation equips participants with everything they need to cross the finish line, including several months of training from professional coaches, transportation and lodging during race weekend and the opportunity to share a life-changing experience with a group of caring individuals.
Teams are forming now on Long Island for the 13.1 Boston Marathon and 2010 Napa to Sonoma Wine Country Half Marathon. For more information, including sign up dates and event schedules, call (516) 222-5530 or visit www.ccteamchallenge.org.
About the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s mission is to cure Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The Foundation ranks third among leading health non-profits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, with more than 81 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs. The Foundation consistently meets the standards of organizations that monitor charities, including the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance (give.org) and the American Institute of Philanthropy (charitywatch.org). For more information, contact the Long Island Chapter at (516) 222-5530 or visit www.ccfa.org.
