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Young and brave with IBD

November is Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month, and we’re highlighting the unique challenges, and the incredible courage, of children and youths who are young and brave with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

 

Young and brave with IBD

November is Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month, and we’re highlighting the unique challenges, and the incredible courage, of children and youths who are young and brave with IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

Canada has one of the highest rates of pediatric IBD in the world. These kids face more severe symptoms, fewer treatment options, and greater emotional and social challenges.


Imagine being 6 years old and missing your birthday party because of a hospital stay. Or being 12 and afraid to go to school because of being made fun of for going to the bathroom so often. For thousands of children in Canada, Crohn’s and colitis interrupts the most precious moments of growing up—but every day, they show us what it means to be young and brave with IBD. Help us support those who are young and brave with IBD and give kids their childhood back. Donations of $100 or more will receive a Gutsy Bear Pin.

Donate now
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Life Interrupted: Children with IBD in Canada

The numbers tell a powerful story—but behind every stat is a child who is young and brave with IBD.

  • IBD is on the rise in kids, especially those under 6 years old.
  • More children are being diagnosed every year, and the total number of kids living with IBD is growing.
  • IBD in children is more severe than in adults. It can affect growth, puberty, and bone development.
  • Treatment options are limited, because most new medications aren’t tested on children.
  • Living with IBD affects the whole family—kids may miss school, and parents often miss work. Mental health challenges like anxiety and depression are also more common.
  • Researchers are working hard to find safer and more effective treatments for children.

Donate now
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Find Resources

For parents and caregivers

Subscribing to Crohn's and Colitis Canada's E-Newsletter

Being a parent or caregiver to a child with Crohn’s or colitis can be hard.

To help For teachers You can help improve the school experience for kids living with IBD. For kids and teens living with Crohn’s or colitis Living with Crohn’s or colitis as a kid or teen can be tough, but you're not

you navigate your child’s journey, we’ve created some resources and tools.

For kids and teens with IBD

Kids & Teens

Living with Crohn’s or colitis as a kid or teen can be tough, but you're not alone—you’re part of a community of other children and teens who are young and brave with IBD

For teachers

Patient Programs and Events

You can help improve the school experience for kids living with IBD..

  • Download the Teacher Brochure to get tips and learn more about accommodations you can make and what you can expect having a student with IBD in your classroom
  • Download Crohn’s and Colitis Canada colouring sheet that you can use to engage and introduce your students on these diseases so they can be more understanding of their peers

What are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis?

Crohn's and colitis are chronic conditions that cause inflammation in the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, interfering with the body's ability to properly digest food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.

These autoimmune diseases typically involve periods of active symptoms, known as flares, followed by times of little or no symptoms, referred to as remission.

People living with Crohn’s or colitis may endure a myriad of symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, frequent and urgent bowel movements, internal bleeding, fatigue, and unintended weight loss, leading to one or more surgeries and daily challenges.
 

Explore the IBD Journey to learn more ​

Woman reading the IBD Guidebook

How Crohn's and Colitis Canada can help

Crohn’s and Colitis Canada offers support and resources for people living with IBD and their family, friends and caregivers. We’re here to help.
 

Supports for you ​

Crohn's and Colitis Canada staff

How you can help

You have the power to make a difference in the lives of those affected by Crohn’s or colitis this November Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month, and beyond!

By donating, you can help fund vital research and patient programs that provide hope for the future and support for today.

Donate now
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