This topic is about remembering Mary Beth Fecteau, a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to raising awareness for Crohn’s disease and colitis. Diagnosed with Crohn’s at the young age of 9 and living with an ostomy since she was 19, Mary Beth passed away at 47 due to complications from Crohn’s. She was a passionate volunteer, fundraiser, mentor, and keynote speaker for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) “Team Challenge” program. Her story inspired many, and she used her experiences to motivate runners, patients, and families.

Here are some key points from her 2010 Boston Team Challenge speech:

1. Mary Beth referred to her diagnosis day, August 30, 1985, as a life-changing moment.
2. She emphasized the importance of connection within the IBD community rather than focusing solely on medical details.
3. She encouraged patients to be vocal about Crohn’s, colitis, and ostomy life to help raise awareness and funds for a cure.
4. Mary Beth openly discussed her private challenges, such as frequent bathroom trips, using NG tubes, dealing with prednisone side effects, and body image concerns before her ostomy surgery.
5. She praised the CCFA for fostering hope and believed that a cure is possible through collective efforts.
6. Mary Beth found a sense of team spirit through the CCFA’s running program and encouraged participants to cherish the camaraderie experienced on race day.

Advice and insights shared by forum members include:

- Many expressed admiration for Mary Beth’s advocacy, fundraising, and inspirational message. Her impact was felt even by those without IBD or ostomies, highlighting the importance of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and respect.
- Condolences and encouragement were extended to all IBD and ostomy patients, urging them to stay proud, positive, and connected, echoing Mary Beth’s core advice.