Every day, millions of people around the world silently battle inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. These chronic conditions impact far more than physical health — they affect emotional well-being, relationships, careers, and everyday life.
That is why awareness matters.
At Advanced Research, we are proud to support efforts that bring visibility, education, and hope to those living with IBD. This year, we are honored to participate in two important community events organized by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation:
- Denver Take Steps Walk – June 6, 2026
- Salt Lake City Take Steps Walk – June 13, 2026
These walks are more than just events. They are opportunities for communities to come together, raise awareness, support research, and stand beside individuals and families affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory bowel diseases that cause inflammation within the digestive tract. While symptoms vary from person to person, many patients experience severe abdominal pain, fatigue, digestive complications, weight loss, and ongoing health challenges that can significantly reduce quality of life.
One of the biggest challenges faced by people living with IBD is that these illnesses are often invisible. Many patients appear healthy on the outside while managing serious pain and symptoms internally. Because of this, people with IBD can sometimes feel isolated or misunderstood.
Awareness plays a critical role in changing that reality.
By educating communities and encouraging open conversations, we can help reduce stigma, improve understanding, and ensure that those affected receive the compassion and support they deserve.
Why the Take Steps Walks Matter
The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s Take Steps walks are designed to unite patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, and supporters with one shared mission: improving the lives of people affected by IBD while advancing research toward better treatments and cures.
Every participant, donor, volunteer, and supporter helps make a meaningful impact.
Funds raised through these events contribute to:
- Groundbreaking medical research
- Patient education programs
- Community support resources
- Advocacy efforts
- Improved access to care and treatment
But perhaps most importantly, these walks remind people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that they are not alone.
There is incredible strength in community.
Advanced Research’s Commitment to Awareness and Innovation
At Advanced Research, we believe that research and awareness go hand in hand. Through clinical research and medical innovation, we have the opportunity to help improve the future of healthcare and support advancements that can positively impact patients’ lives.
Participating in the Denver and Salt Lake City Take Steps walks reflects our continued commitment to supporting awareness initiatives and standing with the IBD community.
We recognize the resilience of patients and families facing these conditions every day, and we are proud to help amplify their voices.
How You Can Help
Even if you are unable to attend the events in person, there are many ways to support the mission:
- Share educational resources about Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
- Support organizations dedicated to IBD research and advocacy
- Encourage open conversations about invisible illnesses
- Learn the signs and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease
- Offer compassion and understanding to those living with chronic health conditions
Small actions can create lasting change.
Join Us in Denver and Salt Lake City
We invite our community, partners, friends, and supporters to join us at the upcoming Take Steps walks:
Denver Walk
June 6, 2026
Salt Lake City Walk
June 13, 2026
Together, we can help raise awareness, inspire hope, and support the ongoing fight against Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Every step matters.
For more information about the events, visit:
https://takesteps.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/home
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