1. IBD’s Impact on Youth Life Presented by: The Gutsy Generation

2. What Is IBD? Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) IBD is an autoimmune condition Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the digestive system Ulcerative colitis occurs in the colon

3. Who Does It Affect? Over 200,000 Canadians Canada has highest prevalence of IBD in the world Anyone can be affected Ages 15-24 Most prevalent in Maritimes/Newfoundland

4. How Does It Feel? Stomach pains Frequent trips to the washroom Weight loss Fatigue Other side effects

5. Living with IBD Is there a Cure? No known cause or cure Remission/Flare ups Lifestyle changes Diet Medication Surgery

6. Coping with the Emotional Affects of IBD Feeling alone Embarrassment Taboos Left hiding in the stalls Constant worry

7. Complications in School Life Missing classes and assignments “You’re so lucky” Fatigue and motivation Playing catch-up Feeling out of the loop An ‘invisible’ disease “But you look fine”

8. Relationships with Friends Support / Lack of support Understanding / Misunderstandings Possible limitations Missed adventures How friends can help Eg. Hospital stays

9. Surviving & Thriving IBD has many defining characteristics BUT remember: It does not define a person! Lifestyle changes Finding new hobbies Creating new habits Learn to manage both body and disease

10. Taking Action What Can You Do? Get informed Create awareness about IBD Help educate others Volunteer with the CCFC Participate in a CCFC fundraiser Join The Gutsy Generation

11. What Is The Gutsy Generation? An identity for youth affected directly or indirectly by IBD Created by youth – for youth! Great way to connect with other youth Fun & interactive! Action * Support * TeamWork * Exciting * Gutsy www.thegutsygeneration.ca

12. Volunteer Opportunities CCFC Event Volunteer (One day) CCFC Taskforce Member Member, The Gutsy Generation Event Organizer, The Gutsy Generation Start a ‘Gutsy Generation Club’ “CCFC Youth Voice” Youth Advisory Council Member

13. Get Gutsy Get Involved Touching the lives of others… Help other YOUTH Over 200, 000 Canadians Future IBD patients Your family and friends