Who are some famous people with ulcerative colitis. How do celebrities manage their UC symptoms. What impact has UC had on the careers of well-known individuals. How have public figures raised awareness about inflammatory bowel disease.

Understanding Ulcerative Colitis: A Brief Overview

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine. It causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. While UC can be challenging to manage, many individuals, including celebrities, have found ways to live fulfilling lives despite their diagnosis.

What are the main symptoms of ulcerative colitis?

• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Frequent diarrhea, often with blood or pus
• Rectal pain and bleeding
• Urgency to defecate
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Fever

These symptoms can vary in severity and may come and go in periods of flare-ups and remission. Understanding the nature of UC is crucial for appreciating the challenges faced by those living with the condition, including the celebrities we’ll discuss in this article.

Political Figures Battling Ulcerative Colitis

John F. Kennedy: A Presidential Mystery

America’s 35th president, John F. Kennedy, is believed to have suffered from ulcerative colitis, among other health issues. Medical records examined in 2002 revealed that Kennedy experienced severe bouts of diarrhea, leading some doctors to suspect UC. However, further review suggested it might have been irritable bowel syndrome instead.

Kennedy’s case highlights the complexity of diagnosing UC and the importance of thorough medical evaluation. It also demonstrates that even individuals in high-stress positions, such as the presidency, can be affected by inflammatory bowel conditions.

Shinzo Abe: From Resignation to Resilience

Shinzo Abe, who became prime minister of Japan in 2006, provides a compelling example of how UC can impact a political career. Abe resigned from his position in 2007 due to the severity of his ulcerative colitis symptoms. In an interview with Australian TV network ABC in 2008, he revealed the extent of his struggle: “I would need to go to the lavatory 30 times a day. It would be absolutely impossible to perform the heavy duties of prime minister.”

However, Abe’s story is also one of resilience and medical advancement. Thanks to new medication, he was able to control his UC symptoms and returned as prime minister in 2012, holding the post for several years afterward. This demonstrates that with proper treatment and management, individuals with UC can overcome significant challenges and achieve their goals.

Actors and Entertainers Shining a Light on UC

Gregory Itzin: A Wake-Up Call on Set

Gregory Itzin, best known for his role as President Charles Logan on the TV drama 24, experienced a significant UC flare-up during his time on the show. This health scare led to hospitalization and served as a wake-up call for the actor. In a 2012 interview with Celebrity Health Minute, Itzin, then 71, shared, “Being scolded a bit by the doctor for not taking care of my ulcerative colitis shook me up. I thought I just had a sensitive stomach, but that’s when I finally realized this is something that I really have to take care of.”

Itzin’s experience underscores the importance of taking UC seriously and seeking proper medical care. It also highlights how the demanding nature of careers in entertainment can sometimes lead to neglecting one’s health, a lesson applicable to many professions.

Amy Brenneman: Advocacy Through Personal Experience

Amy Brenneman, star of the TV drama Judging Amy, has used her platform to raise awareness about inflammatory bowel diseases. As a spokesperson for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCFA) of America, Brenneman has been vocal about her personal experience with UC. “I know firsthand,” she stated, “how devastating these diseases can be.”

By sharing her story, Brenneman has helped reduce the stigma surrounding UC and other inflammatory bowel diseases. Her advocacy work demonstrates the power of celebrity voices in bringing attention to important health issues and supporting those affected by chronic conditions.

Behind the Scenes: TV Producers and Writers with UC

Chuck Lorre: Finding Humor in Health Challenges

Chuck Lorre, the creative genius behind popular TV comedies such as The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men, has been open about his experience with ulcerative colitis. In one of his famous “vanity cards” that appear at the end of his show episodes, Lorre humorously addressed the impact of UC on his life and perspectives: “Being too poor to go to a doctor when I had ulcerative colitis made me a big supporter of free health care, as well as appreciative of the life-affirming qualities in a good bowel movement.”

Lorre’s approach to discussing UC through humor not only raises awareness but also demonstrates how individuals can maintain a positive outlook despite health challenges. His success in the entertainment industry proves that UC doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving one’s creative and professional goals.

Athletes Overcoming UC: Stories of Determination

Rolf Benirschke: From NFL Kicker to UC Advocate

Rolf Benirschke, a former kicker in the NFL, has a complex history with inflammatory bowel disease. Initially diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, Benirschke underwent several surgeries during his 10-year professional football career. Later, doctors revised his diagnosis to ulcerative colitis.

Despite the challenges posed by his condition, Benirschke had a successful career in the NFL. His experience showcases the importance of perseverance and proper medical care in managing UC. Today, Benirschke serves as a spokesperson for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, using his platform to educate others about inflammatory bowel diseases and inspire those facing similar challenges.

Casey Abrams: American Idol Contestant Breaks the Silence

Casey Abrams, a contestant on American Idol in 2011, brought attention to UC when he was hospitalized during the competition due to a flare-up. Despite this setback, Abrams finished sixth in the competition and later became a spokesperson for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

Abrams has been candid about the challenges of living with UC, stating, “It’s really not talked about that much because you’re going to the bathroom 10 to 14 times a day during a flare-up and there’s blood and it’s kind of embarrassing. But if you have it, you have to talk about it. You have to see a doctor.” His openness has helped reduce stigma and encourage others to seek medical help for their symptoms.

Culinary World: Chefs Managing UC

Sunny Anderson: Cooking Up Awareness

Sunny Anderson, a celebrity chef, has been living with ulcerative colitis for over two decades. In 2014, she took her experience with UC a step further by launching a website dedicated to educating those with inflammatory bowel disease about the role of diet and nutrition in managing symptoms of Crohn’s and UC.

Anderson’s initiative highlights the crucial connection between diet and UC management. By sharing her knowledge and experience, she helps others with inflammatory bowel diseases navigate the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet while managing their symptoms.

Musicians and Performers: Harmonizing with UC

Dan Reynolds: Rockin’ Through UC

Dan Reynolds, the lead singer of Imagine Dragons, revealed on Twitter in 2018 that he had been living with ulcerative colitis and ankylosing spondylitis for a decade. A year later, he shared with fans that through diet and exercise, he had both diseases largely under control.

Reynolds’ journey with UC demonstrates the importance of lifestyle modifications in managing the condition. His ability to maintain a successful music career while dealing with UC serves as an inspiration to many fans who may be facing similar health challenges.

Olympic Glory: Athletes Achieving Despite UC

Sir Steven Redgrave: Rowing to Gold with UC

Sir Steven Redgrave, a British rower who won gold medals in five consecutive Olympics (1984-2000), is widely regarded as one of the greatest rowers in history. What makes his achievements even more remarkable is that he accomplished them while managing ulcerative colitis.

Redgrave’s UC symptoms threatened his participation in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, but he persevered. He later stated, “With the right medical treatment, I’ve been able to keep the illness under control and continue with my life, both in training during my career as a professional athlete and in my life beyond the boat.” Redgrave’s story is a powerful testament to the possibility of achieving athletic excellence despite the challenges posed by UC.

On the Ice: Hockey Players Facing UC

Fernando Pisani: Skating Through UC Challenges

Fernando Pisani, who played in the National Hockey League for eight seasons, first noticed symptoms of ulcerative colitis in 2005. In an article for The Hockey News, Pisani described the severity of his condition, writing that he was going to the bathroom 20-30 times a day and losing significant amounts of blood.

The impact of UC on Pisani’s career was substantial, causing him to miss 26 games in the 2007-08 season. However, with proper medication and management, Pisani was able to control his UC and continue his professional hockey career. His experience highlights both the potential severity of UC symptoms and the possibility of managing them effectively with proper medical care.

Living Well with UC: Lessons from Celebrities

The stories of these celebrities with ulcerative colitis offer valuable insights and inspiration for anyone living with the condition. Here are some key takeaways:

1. Seek proper medical care: Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing UC effectively.
2. Don’t let UC define you: Many of these celebrities have achieved remarkable success in their fields despite their diagnosis.
3. Be open about your condition: Sharing your experience can help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help.
4. Explore lifestyle modifications: Diet, exercise, and stress management can play significant roles in controlling UC symptoms.
5. Stay positive and resilient: With proper management, it’s possible to live a fulfilling life with UC.
6. Use your platform: If you have the opportunity, consider raising awareness about UC to help others.
7. Continue pursuing your passions: UC doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving your goals and dreams.

These celebrity stories demonstrate that while ulcerative colitis can present significant challenges, it doesn’t have to prevent individuals from leading successful, impactful lives. By sharing their experiences, these public figures have not only raised awareness about UC but also provided hope and inspiration to others living with the condition.

Advancing UC Research and Treatment

The experiences of celebrities with ulcerative colitis also highlight the importance of ongoing research and advancements in UC treatment. Many of these individuals have benefited from new medications and treatment approaches that have allowed them to better manage their symptoms and maintain their careers.

How has UC treatment evolved over the years?

Ulcerative colitis treatment has come a long way in recent decades. Some key advancements include:

• Biologic therapies: These targeted treatments can help reduce inflammation and promote healing of the intestinal lining.
• Improved corticosteroids: Newer formulations with fewer side effects allow for more effective symptom management.
• Personalized medicine: Doctors can now tailor treatments more precisely to individual patients based on their specific type of UC and other factors.
• Surgical techniques: For severe cases requiring surgery, minimally invasive procedures have improved outcomes and recovery times.

These advancements have made it possible for many individuals, including the celebrities mentioned in this article, to better control their UC symptoms and maintain a higher quality of life. However, there is still much work to be done in UC research to find even more effective treatments and potentially a cure.

The Role of Support and Advocacy in UC Management

Many of the celebrities discussed in this article have become advocates for UC awareness and support. Their involvement with organizations like the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation highlights the importance of community and advocacy in managing UC.

How can support groups and advocacy organizations help individuals with UC?

Support groups and advocacy organizations play crucial roles in helping those with UC by:

• Providing educational resources about the condition and its management
• Offering emotional support and a sense of community
• Raising public awareness about UC and reducing stigma
• Funding research for better treatments and potential cures
• Advocating for policies that benefit those living with UC

By participating in these organizations, celebrities with UC not only help themselves but also contribute to the larger community of individuals affected by inflammatory bowel diseases. Their involvement can inspire others to seek support and become advocates themselves, creating a positive cycle of awareness and empowerment.

Balancing Career and Health: Lessons from Celebrity UC Stories

The stories of celebrities with ulcerative colitis provide valuable insights into balancing a demanding career with the management of a chronic health condition. From politicians and athletes to actors and musicians, these individuals have found ways to pursue their passions while taking care of their health.

What strategies have celebrities used to manage UC while maintaining their careers?

Some common strategies employed by celebrities with UC include:

• Prioritizing health: Many have learned to put their health first, even if it means taking time off from work.
• Open communication: Being honest with colleagues and employers about their condition has helped many manage expectations and receive necessary accommodations.
• Stress management: Given the link between stress and UC flare-ups, many celebrities have incorporated stress-reduction techniques into their routines.
• Dietary adjustments: Some, like chef Sunny Anderson, have explored how diet can help manage their symptoms.
• Staying informed: Keeping up with the latest treatments and research has helped many celebrities optimize their UC management.

These strategies demonstrate that with proper planning and support, it’s possible to pursue a successful career while managing UC effectively. The experiences of these public figures can serve as a roadmap for others looking to balance their professional aspirations with their health needs.

Celebrities With Ulcerative Colitis

Medically Reviewed by Carol DerSarkissian, MD on August 27, 2021

Medical records examined in 2002 showed that America’s 35th president might have had, among other illnesses, ulcerative colitis. Severe bouts of diarrhea led some doctors to believe it was UC, though further review suggested it might have been irritable bowel syndrome.

Abe became prime minister of Japan in 2006. He resigned the next year because of ulcerative colitis. “I would need to go to the lavatory 30 times a day. It would be absolutely impossible to perform the heavy duties of prime minister,” he told Australian TV network ABC in 2008. A year later, thanks to new medication, he was able to control his UC. He returned as prime minister in 2012 and has held the post ever since.

Best known for his role of President Charles Logan on the TV drama 24, Itzin got help after a bout of UC put him in the hospital during his run on the show. “Being scolded a bit by the doctor for not taking care of my ulcerative colitis shook me up,” Itzin, now 71, told the Celebrity Health Minute in 2012. “I thought I just had a sensitive stomach, but that’s when I finally realized this is something that I really have to take care of.”

Brenneman, star of the TV drama Judging Amy, has been a spokesperson for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation (CCFA) of America, aiming to raise awareness for both UC and Crohn’s. “I know firsthand,” she said, “how devastating these diseases can be.”

Lorre, the genius behind such TV comedies as The Big Bang Theory and Two and a Half Men, has UC. He mentioned it in one of the “cards” that appear at the end of episodes of his shows. “Being too poor to go to a doctor when I had ulcerative colitis made me a big supporter of free health care,” this comedy king wrote, “as well as appreciative of the life-affirming qualities in a good bowel movement.”

Benirschke, a former kicker in the NFL, originally was diagnosed with Crohn’s, but after several surgeries during his 10-year pro football career, doctors told him he had ulcerative colitis. Now, he’s a spokesperson for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation.

This American Idol contestant went to the hospital during his competition in 2011 after a flare-up of UC. He eventually finished sixth, and later served as a spokesperson for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. “It’s really not talked about that much because you’re going to the bathroom 10 to 14 times a day during a flare-up and there’s blood and it’s kind of embarrassing,” he said. “But if you have it, you have to talk about it. You have to see a doctor.”

Anderson, a celebrity chef, has been living with UC for more than 20 years. In 2014, she launched a website designed to educate those with inflammatory bowel disease about the role of diet and nutrition in managing symptoms of Crohn’s and UC.  

Reynolds, the lead singer of Imagine Dragons, announced on Twitter in 2018 that he’s had UC and another inflammatory disease, ankylosing spondylitis, for a decade. A year later, he let fans know that through diet and exercise, he has both diseases largely under control.

Redgrave, a British rower who won gold in five consecutive Olympics (1984-2000), is widely considered to be the greatest rower ever. UC symptoms endangered his run at the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, but “with the right medical treatment, I’ve been able to keep the illness under control and continue with my life, both in training during my career as a professional athlete and in my life beyond the boat.”

Pisani, who played in the National Hockey League for eight seasons, first began to notice symptoms of his disease in 2005. Pisani wrote in The Hockey News that he was going to the bathroom 20-30 times a day and losing lots of blood. His UC caused him to miss 26 games in the 2007-08 season, but it became controlled through medication.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1. Pxhere
2. Kremlin.ru
3. Rich Fury / Getty Images
4. Kristin Dos Santos / Wikimedia
5. iDominick / Wikimedia
6. George Gojkovich / Getty Images
7. Justin Higuchi / Wikimedia
8. Slaven Vlasic / Getty Images
9. Sven-Sebastian Sajak / Wikimedia
10. Phil Guest / Wikimedia
11. Joel Auerbach / Getty Images

SOURCES:

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: “Overview of Ulcerative Colitis,” “Rolf Benirschke’s Story,” “Diet and Nutrition. “

The White House: “John F. Kennedy.”

The New York Times: “In J.F.K. File, Hidden Illnesses, Pain and Pills.”

Prime Minister of Japan and His Cabinet: “Profile of the Prime Minister.”

Agence France-Presse (via Australian Broadcasting Company): “Bowel illness forced me to quit, Abe says.”

Financial Times: “The Second Coming of Japan’s Shinzo Abe.”

Japan Forward: “Prime Minister Shinzo Abe: Call Him A Born-Again Politician.”

International Move Database: “Gregory Itzin.”

Celebrity Health Minute: “Gregory Itzin: Battling Ulcerative Colitis.”

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: “HBO’s ‘The Leftovers’ Star Amy Brenneman Lends Her Voice To Help Raise Awareness for Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis in new PSA.”

CDC: “Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Data and Statistics,” “What is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?”

International Movie Database: “Amy Brenneman.”

Chuck Lorre Productions: “The Official Vanity Card Archives (No. 497).”

Pro Football Reference: “Rolf Benirschke.”

The Los Angeles Times: “‘American Idol’s’ Casey Abrams talks about his ulcerative colitis.”

Fox News: “Celebrity chef Sunny Anderson on living with inflammatory bowel disease.”

Verywell Health: “Marvin Bush, First Brother, and Ulcerative Colitis.”

Twitter: @DanReynolds.

Spondylitis Association of America: “Overview of Ankylosing Spondylitis.”

Men’s Health: “How Dan Reynolds From Imagine Dragons Transformed His Body and His Health.”

International Olympic Committee: “Steven Redgrave.”

Crohn’s & Colitis UK: “Sir Steve Redgrave.”

Hockey Reference: “Fernando Pisani.”

The Hockey News: “Fernando Pisani: Battling Back from Ulcerative Colitis.”

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24 Celebrities Who Have Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis | by cindy frei

11 min read

·

May 27, 2017

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can strike anyone at any time and being a celebrity does not make you immune. IBD doesn’t shy away from the rich, powerful, and famous. It also doesn’t stop them from achieving greatness!

Here is a list of 24 celebrities, from the worlds of sports, music, politics and more, all with either Crohn’s or Ulcerative Colitis. If you have kids, this would be a great blog to share with them. I know my son Caleb (who has Crohn’s) really enjoyed it. Let them know, they’re not alone in their disease and they can accomplish anything they set their hearts and minds to. Just take a look below.

LA Lakers basketball star, Larry Nance Jr. says it best “Never let it hold you back or limit your life in any way.”

The 34th President of the United States of America was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease while in office in 1956. Despite being hospitalized at Walter Reed Hospital, where he underwent surgery, President Eisenhower was re-elected to a second term.

Famous for her role as Brenda Walsh in Beverly Hills, 90210 and as Prue Halliwell on Charmed, Shannen Doherty has played some great characters on television and the big screen. While filming for these and other roles, she was battling Crohn’s, but kept it from the public. In a 1999 interview with Star magazine, Doherty disclosed her condition, revealing that she had remained silent about it because it wasn’t very sexy.

Theoren Fleury is another athlete, famous for his ice hockey career. The retired Canadian hockey star is a Stanley Cup champ and an Olympic gold medal winner. In 1995, Fleury was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and today is a motivational speaker.

Photo Credit: Matt Sayles/AP Photo

Amy Brenneman is a well-known Hollywood actress who has starred in television hits like Judging Amy, Grey’s Anatomy, and Private Practice. Off-camera, she uses her celebrity as a strong supporter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Brenneman struggled with ulcerative colitis, one form of IBD, for years before she finally agreed to surgery, which she says on the CCFA Web site, is what ultimately healed her. Brenneman is an advocate for CCFA, because she wants to help the millions of others struggling with ulcerative colitis.

Some people take their problems in stride, while others make fun of them. Comedian Ben Morrison turned his awkward years in high school and college as a student “with a poop disease” to create his funny and cathartic show, “Pain in the Butt: a Touching Tale about a Touchy Tail.”

Matt Light was diagnosed during his rookie season in 2001 and quietly battled Crohn’s for a decade. Light says that during his football career, he couldn’t take most Crohn’s medications, and missed games because he was too sick to play. The three-time Super Bowl champion eventually had surgery to remove more than a foot of his intestine. Now retired from football, the athlete shares his story with others to raise awareness and educate the public about Crohn’s disease.

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

The former president may have had a heart-stopping smile, but behind it was pain. Though it was hidden from the public during his presidency, JFK struggled for most of his life with severe diarrhea and took antispasmodic drugs to try to control his IBD. Reviews of his medical records indicate that he may have suffered from ulcerative colitis, and some reports show he was diagnosed as a child. Other reports on his health indicate that he may have had IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, rather than ulcerative colitis.

By Mike Purgatori (Larry Nance in for the slam)

L.A. Lakers forward Larry Nance Jr. is on steroids, but not the performance enhancing drugs you might think. Nance confided recently that he takes prednisone for Crohn’s disease. He also takes Remicade, which he says changed his life. The basketball player has lived with Crohn’s since he was first diagnosed at age 16. Today, at age 24, he’s in remission. His message is always the same: “Never let it hold you back or limit your life in any way.”

Photo Credit: Charles Dharaphak/AP Photo

Marvin Bush is the youngest son of former President George H.W. Bush. In 1990, he was a celebrity spokesman for the National Foundation for Ileitis and Colitis, speaking out about the Ulcerative Colitis diagnosis he received in 1985, when he was 28 years old. He tried medications, he told The Baltimore Sun in an interview, but lived in denial about his IBD. The next year, hospitalized after losing 30 pounds and suffering from severe internal bleeding, he underwent surgery to remove his colon.

Last year, the NFL suspended Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Seantrel Henderson for 10 games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy. According to CBS Sports, Henderson was taking prescribed medical marijuana for both his Crohn’s disease and the pain resulting from two intestinal surgeries tied to the condition. In an interview last October with the Buffalo News, Henderson told the newspaper, “I’ve got doctors telling me this is the №1 medicine that would help with your disease. You try to tell that to the league, and it seems like they didn’t care too much.”

Photo Credit: Wikimedia

Five-time Olympic rowing champion Sir Steve Redgrave is one very successful athlete, in fact one of the most accomplished. As he was training for the Barcelona Olympic games, he was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis. He received treatment for his IBD and was able to successfully compete until his retirement after the 2000 Sydney Olympic games. Redgrave is one of many famous people who support Crohn’s and Colitis UK and helps bring awareness to ulcerative colitis.

Drafted in 2002, David Garrard played quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2004, he was diagnosed with Crohn’s and underwent surgery that removed nearly a foot of his intestines. Still, he played in the 2004 season as starting quarterback for the Jaguars.

Former White House press secretary Snow died at age 53 after a battle with colon cancer. In a 2006 radio interview with Houston gastroenterologist Joseph S. Galati, MD, Snow, then a Fox News commentator, says, “I had Ulcerative Colitis for 27 years. It is, at least in my case, probably congenital.”

Diagnosed at the age of 21, Mike McCready took control of his condition and went on to help form Pearl Jam in 1990, igniting the grunge rock era.

After publicly announcing his condition, McCready took on the activist role, volunteering with the northwest chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, including lending his talents for fundraisers.

Cynthia and Primetime and a correspondent for ABC News. McFadden also has to treat Crohn’s disease daily. She, like many other celebrities, uses her notoriety to raise awareness about the condition, including public service announcements.

At the age of 13, Anastacia, an American singer and songwriter, was diagnosed with Crohn’s. After undergoing surgery to remove part of her intestinal tract, she was bound to a wheelchair and had to learn how to walk again. While trying to lose weight to make it in show business, she suffered a severe flare.

The Canadian right wing struggled with Crohn’s disease throughout his 19-year National Hockey League career, particularly in the early years after his 1987 diagnosis.

Dineen, now coach of the Florida Panthers, tells USA Hockey magazine that the disease was “a real eye-opening experience” because there’s no quick fix. “This is a chronic, debilitating disease that’s with you for life,” he says. “It took me a couple of years to come to grips with that. ”

Elizabeth Caroline “Beth” Orton is an English singer-songwriter, known for her ‘folktronica’ sound, which mixes elements of folk and electronica. She was initially recognized for her collaborations with William Orbit, Red Snapper and the Chemical Brothers in the mid-1990s. She released a solo album in 1993, Superpinkymandy, but since the album was only released in Japan, it went largely unnoticed by international audiences.

photo source: http://www.empireonline.com

What wasn’t widely known about this cult classic of a movie is that the writer of the script for the 70’s cult class, “Alien,” (O’Bannon, who died in 2009) battled Crohn’s disease himself. According to a recent book by colleague Zinoman; “The digestion process felt like something bubbling inside of [O’Bannon] struggling to get out. From his own torment came the idea for the alien bloodily punching its way out of John Hurt’s chest during dinner.”

Kayaker Carrie Johnson made it to three Summer Olympic Games despite her Crohn’s disease. Back in 2003, anemia, fatigue, and weight loss forced her to stop training. After many tests, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s, and doctors helped her manage the disease. She qualified for her first Olympics in Athens a year later. In her most recent Olympics, the 2012 London Games, Johnson reached the semifinals in two events.

His given name is William James (Jim) Myers, but professional wrestling fans know him as George “The Animal” Steele. His career in the ring spanned more than two decades, culminating in his induction into the World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Fame in 1995. Steele’s fight with Crohn’s disease began in 1988. He says he regained his health after a 2002 surgery to remove his colon.

British golfer James Morrison was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when he was 16 years old. During the 2011 French Open, a flare-up landed him in the hospital, but Morrison rallied and managed to finish the competition. Although most people with Crohn’s have to watch what they eat, Morrison says he doesn’t have many problems with his diet. But, he adds, symptoms like fatigue tend to creep up in warm weather. To stay in tip-top shape for golfing, Morrison exercises and takes dietary supplements.

Photo Credit: Jeff J. Mitchell/Getty Images

Soccer star Darren Fletcher, a midfielder for Manchester United, is struggling to maintain his superstar soccer celebrity while battling Ulcerative Colitis. Diagnosed in 2011, he had to sit out part of a season before he returned to the field in September 2012. But in January 2013, Fletcher announced he was stepping off the field again in order to undergo surgery to get his ulcerative colitis under control and hopefully be able to resume his career on the soccer field.

Christopher Lane “Chris” Conley is an American musician, songwriter, and composer. He is also the lead-singer/rhythm guitarist in Saves the Day. He is the only remaining original member, as well as major artistic contributor. Chris continued to tour despite having Crohn’s disease.

We’re continuing the list:

Kathleen Baker is an American competition swimmer who specializes in the freestyle and backstroke events. She won a gold medal in the 2016 Summer Olympics in the 4×100-meter medley relay and a silver medal in the individual 100-meter backstroke. When she was 11, she watched the Olympics in Beijing and fell in love. When she was 14, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and everyone thought her dreams of becoming an Olympian were over. Boy were the wrong.

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

Pete was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when he was 17 years old and had been a big proponent of medical marijuana for years, while working on the cast of Saturday Night Live. He is now clean and sober — “I quit drugs and am clean and sober for the first time in 8 years. It wasn’t easy, but I got a great girl, great friends and consider myself a lucky man”.

As the third most accurate placekicker in NFL history at the time of his retirement, Rolf Benirschke had an famous 10-year career with the San Diego Chargers from 1977 to 1986. In his second season, Rolf was struck with ulcerative colitis, which required major abdominal surgery the following season, and nearly cost him his life. His faith, family, personal drive and teammates helped him return to the NFL to continue his remarkable football career.

Inspired by my son Caleb who has Crohn’s disease, I created a company to sell healthy food for children that is grain, gluten, sugar and preservative free. The company is called Caleb’s Cooking Company.

What most people don’t realize is that autoimmune diseases are one of the top ten causes of death for children today and food related diseases are driving this explosion. It’s imperative that we clean up the food that we feed our children. This is my attempt to do so and in the process, provide delicious fast food for kids already on diets to manage IBD and other autoimmune diseases. If you would like to try our pizzas, chicken nuggets or other frozen fast food — all organic, free of toxins and other nasty stuff, check out our Store for more details.

We are building a community of likeminded parents and children with autoimmume illnesses to share stories of strength, insight and wisdom. We all learn from one another. If you would like to be a part of Caleb’s Cooking Company and share your story, please contact me at [email protected]. Thanks!

5 of our stars who have to live with incurable diseases

Tatyana Lazareva – ulcerative colitis

Tatyana Lazareva. Photo © Instagram / lazarevatut

Four years ago, the actress and TV presenter revealed the secret – it turns out that she has been living with ulcerative colitis for several years. Until now, neither the causes of the disease nor the methods of its treatment are known. The disease is expressed in abdominal pain, diarrhea, anemia, weight loss and appetite, weakness and skin problems. Many people are often even embarrassed to go to the doctor with such symptoms – that is why Lazareva decided to talk about this problem publicly: “Sometimes a person is diagnosed with a not very well-known diagnosis – and he already believes that there is only one person in the whole world who has this disease, and no one will help him. It is very difficult. That is why I am now talking about my illness in public: let other patients know that they are not alone.”

Alexander Serov – diabetes

Alexander Serov. Photo © alexander-serov.ru

But the incurable diagnosis of this artist became known only a few months ago. Last year, Alexander Nikolayevich was hospitalized with covid. The situation was critical – the specialists even had to put him into a medical sleep. When all the tests were taken from the singer, it turned out that the coronavirus was not the only problem. The critical condition has receded, and now Serov has to recover in a new status and with a new diet – special for patients with diabetes.

Sati Kazanova – psoriasis

Sati Kazanova. Photo © Instagram / satikazanova

Sati’s disease, although not fatal, is still incurable. When the future singer was only a year and a half, doctors diagnosed her with psoriasis. There were many problems from the disease, at least psychological ones. From childhood, Sati was terribly ashamed of skin rashes, and only with age she was able to learn to live in this state. Now she even gives advice on how to get rid of this destructive feeling: “Shame is the opposite of love, for it is one of the aspects of fear. If you are embarrassed about your body, then just imagine standing naked in front of a huge crowd. Eventually the tension will reach its maximum heights – then just exhale and ask yourself: “So what’s next? “Believe me, nothing will happen. All the problems are in your head.”

Svetlana Rozhkova — biliary cirrhosis of the liver

Svetlana Rozhkova. Photo © Instagram / svetrozhkova

Several years ago it became known that the nationally beloved comedian from “Full House” was struggling with a terrible disease – biliary cirrhosis of the liver. And although it will not be possible to completely cope with the disease, the woman does everything possible to live a full life. She still goes on tour and even maintains a permanent fashion column on her Instagram blog. Life made a selection of the funniest images of Svetlana.

Igor Krutoy – diabetes

Igor Krutoy. Photo © Instagram / olga_victorovna1 and bosco_di_ciliegi

Fans began to notice that Cool began to change in appearance a few years ago. Due to the fact that the composer lost a lot of weight, many even thought that he was struggling with oncology. But the rumors were not confirmed. Four years ago, a source close to the star said that the changes in appearance are associated with his new strict diet, which was prescribed by the doctor. It’s all about diabetes, which the maestro was diagnosed with shortly before. “Igor Yakovlevich eats very little and still leads an active lifestyle. Krutoy loves tennis, a treadmill and walks in the fresh air”, – according to Starhit.

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  Tatyana Lazareva said that she suffers from a chronic incurable disease

  06 June 2018 18:37 Society glowing

  Famous actress and the TV presenter became the first Russian celebrity who publicly admitted that she suffers from ulcerative colitis, a disease that is included in the group of inflammatory bowel diseases. Thus, Tatyana Lazareva hopes to help thousands of patients overcome their embarrassment and see a doctor in time.

  Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) include ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. This is a group of chronic diseases in which inflammation develops in the walls of the intestine. The causes of the disease are not known for certain, and the method of complete medical cure has not yet been found.
  Faced with IBD, a person experiences a real shock. The disease subjugates all spheres of life – the patient cannot work normally, study, travel, communicate with others, start a family. Sometimes the symptoms do not allow you to forget about the disease for a minute, significantly reducing the quality of life.

  The person suffers from abdominal pain, diarrhea, anemia, loss of weight and appetite, weakness, skin problems and other unpleasant symptoms. It is not yet possible to cure the disease, but it is possible to alleviate the symptoms and bring the patient into long-term remission with the help of the right treatment.
  However, due to the specificity of the symptoms, patients are embarrassed to speak openly about the difficulties that they have to overcome every day. A person is alone with the disease, which aggravates the psychological state.

  A real breakthrough in the fight against the silence of this problem was the public statement of the famous Russian TV presenter Tatyana Lazareva: “I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2014. Now I understand that there is no need to be ashamed of this disease. The problem won’t go away if you pretend it doesn’t exist.”

  Inflammatory bowel disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, when nothing but surgery can help the patient. This is because the symptoms of the disease can come and go, which can take years to reach a diagnosis.

  – When a person is diagnosed with a diagnosis that neither he nor his environment has ever heard of, it may seem that no one is sick except him, and he is alone in the whole world. It’s very hard emotionally. That is why I decided to talk about my illness publicly: let the other patients know that they are not alone with their trouble, – says Tatiana Lazareva.

  Many Western stars do not hide the fact that they live with IBD. For example, the star of the series “Charmed” and “Beverly Hills, 90210” Shannen Doherty, singer Anastacia, screenwriter of the series “The Big Bang Theory” and “Two and a Half Men” Chuck Lorre, lead guitarist of Pearl Jam Mike McCready and many others. Celebrities, by their example, prove to thousands of patients that this disease must be fought: a person with IBD can study, work, become successful in a career, start a family and live a full life.

  After the disease was discussed at the level of television and the press, the topic became more recognizable. This has helped many patients gain the courage to seek medical attention.

  Also a great support to patients with IBD was provided by a social action that takes place around the world on May 19th. City officials illuminate key architectural structures in purple, a symbol of the fight against the IBD. So, in past years, the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Niagara Falls, the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio, the Ferris Wheel in London became purple for one night – a total of 140 architectural monuments in different parts of the world.

  For the first time, Russia joined the action in 2017, lighting up the Palace Bridge in St. Petersburg. This year, the action has become even larger: in Russia, two cities, St. Petersburg and Moscow, supported it at once, highlighting the Palace Bridge and the Ostankino TV Tower in purple. The event was covered by TV channels and major media outlets. Users of social networks did not remain indifferent: many wrote words of support, and some shared that they faced the problem personally.

  – When patients learn about each other’s existence, find specialists in the treatment of IBD, see examples of how others live a full and happy life with this disease, the situation begins to change.