World IBD Day: What it is and How to Celebrate

Navigating a chronic illness like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be difficult or overwhelming. IBD is an invisible illness, which may make you feel alone. But just because others don’t see how you deal with it doesn’t mean you’re fighting by yourself.

On May 19, you can prove that by participating in World IBD Day, a day when people worldwide unite in their fight against IBD. So, what is IBD, who does it affect, and how can you honor the holiday?

What are Inflammatory Bowel Diseases?

Inflammatory bowel diseases are an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of the intestines, such as Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis.

What is World IBD Day and How is it Celebrated?

The European Federation of Crohn’s & Ulcerative Colitis Associations (ECCFA) coordinated with patient organizations from more than 50 countries and five continents to bring this holiday to life to raise awareness for the people battle against IBD. 

And countries around the world participated in this holiday last year to support the fight in unique ways. For example, the Mas Vida Foundation in Argentina placed IBD Awareness stickers on public toilets in Buenos Aires as part of the “Making the Invisible Visible” campaign. 

Here in the US, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation will hold their annual Day on the Hill event virtually on May 20. During the event, participants across the nation can speak with their legislator about policies that affect IBD. You can show your support and participate—learn more about the event on their Advocacy Tools & Resources webpage.

Additionally, the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation is sponsoring the Take Steps virtual event on June 20. During this event, people take steps—safely according to social distancing measures—to raise money to find a cure for Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.    

If you cannot attend either event, you can still show your support! You can wear a purple ribbon, which is being used by associations as a symbol of awareness and support for those who live with IBD. Or you can share your story on social media.

Inspire Others By Sharing Your Story with the World

IBD is an invisible illness that others may not know you’re suffering from, but remember you’re not alone. There are an estimated 3 million Americans and 10 million brave people worldwide with IBD that live a full life. So, on World IBD Day, inspire others by sharing your stories on social media using the following hashtags: 

• #WorldIBDDay2020
• #makeIBDwork
  

You can tell your followers how you’re fighting back against the disease. Also, you can include helpful tips or lifestyle modifications you made to take control of your life. Posting on social media on World IBD Day empowers you to raise awareness and make IBD visible to the world.

How Specialty Infusion Honors the Holiday

Specialty Infusion Centers is NYC’s premier infusion treatment center, and we not only join the fight against IBD on World IBD Day, but everyday. Our all-encompassing service means that we take care of everything involving your treatments. We contact every patient’s health insurance provider before each and every visit to ensure your treatment is covered. That way, all you have to do is focus on your treatment.

And our centers offer a world-class healthcare experience. At Specialty Infusion, you receive treatment in a private space. This space features iPads, flatscreen TVs, leather reclining chairs, WiFi, beverages, and more. Also, our friendly and accommodating expert staff—with our low nurse-to-patient ratio—is there to provide the personalized care you deserve. All of this helps you have a positive mindset during treatments. 

So, remember to participate in World IBD Day on May 19, and that whatever your IBD treatments are, Specialty Infusion can help.