On Saturday, May 5th, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America held the Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis Walk at the Wilmington Riverfront. The Walk was held from 4pm to 7pm. Prior to the event people could register online to join a team, form a team, or walk as an individual. The teams and individuals created fundraisers to raise money for the foundation. The suggested goal for teams was $1,500 and $250 for an individual. No matter what their final outcome was, the money was given to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation to add to the goal of $30,000.
All of the proceeds benefit Crohn’s and Colitis research. Although many people donated, there was no fee to attend the event. The Walk was not only just a three mile walk up the Riverfront, but entertainment, food, and beverages were also set up. There was face painting as well as music and dancing. A DJ was set up, and the Diamond State Dancers performed.
Everyone showed their support for the cause, including major companies such as Nemours AI DuPont Children’s Hospital, Warner Chilcott, Metlife, Starbucks, Delaware Gastroenterology Associates, and JamLand Studios. The help of the company donors, teams, and individuals accumulated past the final goal and reached a total of $41,204.20.
The team who collected the most donations was Stewart Striders with $8, 926, followed by Jessica’s Warriors with $5, 613.19. Jessica’s Warriors was led by Jessica Walker one of Padua’s own students. Jessica is a sophomore who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease last year. Her life is greatly affected with missing school and having limits on activities she can participate in. Even though Crohn’s is a life changing disease, Jessica stays strong. Her friends are extremely supportive of Jessica and they participated in the Walk, too.
She knows she is not alone in having Crohn’s, and she wants to help others suffering as well. Jessica helps out with Crohn’s fundraisers. She has been honored as the Local Hero of Delaware’s Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis. Crohn’s is tough for both children and adults, but together we can help to fund research to conquer this disease.