I don't know too many people that have used Tysabri to treat Crohn's, but it is back in the news again for it's lethal side effects. Business Week article is below.
Biogen Idec Inc. has reported a new case of a potentially lethal brain inflammation in a patient using its drug Tysabri, the tenth such case since the drug was reintroduced three years ago.
The company said late Friday it confirmed the presence of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, or PML, on Tuesday. Biogen said the patient, who lives outside the U.S., had been using Tysabri for 30 months. Three of the ten cases of PML have been confirmed this month. In morning trading, shares of Cambridge, Mass.-based Biogen slid $2.86, or 5.7 percent, to $47.21.
Tysabri is approved as a treatment for multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease. It was pulled from the market in 2005 due to concerns about PML, and sales resumed in July 2006 with restrictions and a monitoring program.
The ten confirmed PML cases have all been in multiple sclerosis patients, and concerns about the disease have pressured sales of the drug.
Biogen said there were about 40,000 patients on Tysabri at the end of March, with 20,800 of them in the U.S. Deutsche Bank analyst Mark Schoenebaum said in a note that the rate of PML infections in Tysabri patients is less than one in a thousand, for patients who have been on the drug for two years. He said the average time on Tysabri for the PML cases is 24 months, and that as more new infections appear, doctors may start taking patients off Tysabri sooner, or giving patients breaks from the drug.
Schoenebaum said that could "dramatically" reduce sales growth. Biogen markets Tysabri with Irish drug maker Elan Corp. PLC, whose shares dipped 38 cents, or 5.2 percent, to $6.98. Shares of PDL BioPharma Inc., which developed the drug and receives royalties on sales from Elan, declined 6 cents to $7.90.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Cocktail Puts Crohn's Into Remission!
M
an, I just wish it was a Vodka and Redbull.....but still, intersting article here is an intersting article on replacing steroids with a nutritional formula that was originally created for Astronauts. I do think this is a valid article as liquid therapy (non-alcoholic!) has worked for me when I am flaring up. Before you read the article, check out a book along the same lines. It was actually released just yesterday (June 15th, 2009) The author Margaret Oppenheimer was kind enough to send me an advanced copy of Beat Crohn's! Getting to Remission with Enteral Nutrition
and I found it pretty fascinating. If you are have any questions on it, email me and I can either answer or get you directly in tough with Margaret.
an, I just wish it was a Vodka and Redbull.....but still, intersting article here is an intersting article on replacing steroids with a nutritional formula that was originally created for Astronauts. I do think this is a valid article as liquid therapy (non-alcoholic!) has worked for me when I am flaring up. Before you read the article, check out a book along the same lines. It was actually released just yesterday (June 15th, 2009) The author Margaret Oppenheimer was kind enough to send me an advanced copy of Beat Crohn's! Getting to Remission with Enteral Nutrition and I found it pretty fascinating. If you are have any questions on it, email me and I can either answer or get you directly in tough with Margaret. Ok, so on to the article at hand:
Treating children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) usually involves the same steroids-based medication prescribed to adults. But such treatments can have negative side effects for kids and teens dealing with IBD and Crohn's Disease.
Dr. Raanan Shamir of Tel Aviv University's Sackler School of Medicine and Schneider Children's Medical Centre shows that there is another path to treating IBD in children: a nutritional formula that was first developed for astronauts. This supplement puts 60-70% of children with Crohn's disease, a common IBD disorder, into remission — a success rate similar to that of traditional steroid-based drugs, but without side effects like malnutrition and growth retardation.
Dr. Raanan Shamir of Tel Aviv University's Sackler School of Medicine and Schneider Children's Medical Centre shows that there is another path to treating IBD in children: a nutritional formula that was first developed for astronauts. This supplement puts 60-70% of children with Crohn's disease, a common IBD disorder, into remission — a success rate similar to that of traditional steroid-based drugs, but without side effects like malnutrition and growth retardation.
Dr. Shamir recently reported his research in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition.
Eating Like an Astronaut
Dr. Shamir's research was inspired by the problem of malnutrition and growth retardation in children battling bowel disease. Steroids and other biological agents, the most common treatment for IBD, were having an adverse affect on the children's growth, despite their effectiveness in adult patients.
It was a problem first tackled by NASA: How could astronauts most efficiently get their daily nutrients? The answer was a specially-designed powder that contains all the daily nutrients a person needs. Aboard spacecrafts, astronauts dine on this nutritional powder mixed with water. Since then, these powders have become a common item on the pharmacy shelf.
A similar concept works wonders for children suffering from bowel disease. "Prepared powder, with liquids, gives you all the nutritional requirements you need for the day," Dr. Shamir explains. "We don't know why these formulas work, and nobody has shown that any one formula is preferable to another. People have to be committed and eat nothing else during the period of time they are on nutrition therapy, and it is difficult to do — but if they do it, they go into remission."
To induce remission, children need to be on nutrition therapy for 6-8 weeks. And in order to maintain remission, 25-50% of their caloric intake must be supplied by nutrition therapy, sometimes for years. This is why children experiencing the treatment need the support of physicians, dieticians, psychologists, and of course their families.
Dr. Shamir's quest to educate the international medical community about the benefits of nutrition therapy has been an uphill battle. "The acceptance of this is difficult," he says. "You have to persuade the family. Not all physicians know it works, and it's much easier to give someone a prescription than try to work with the child."
A Replacement for Steroids
"In adults, studies have shown that steroids are more effective in the battle against bowel disease than nutrition-based therapies. I think it is easier to get compliance from children, especially when it involves their growth. For adults, growth is not a concern — they just want to feel better," explains Dr. Shamir.
Dr. Shamir and his team of researchers have worked to show the international medical community that nutrition was equal to steroids in the treatment of children with bowel disease. "We published the most recent meta-analysis to show that nutrition is as good as steroids as a first-line therapy for Crohn's disease," he says.
The next step in his research, says Dr. Shamir, is to "define exactly the role of nutrition in inducing remission in these patients, and the role of nutrition in maintaining remission.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Seattle Teen Diagnoses Her Own Crohn's Disease in Science Class!
Amazing article here. Thanks to reader "prometheandrone" for sending me the link to this article that appeared on CNN.com
For eight years, Jessica Terry suffered from stomach pain so horrible, it brought her to her knees. The pain, along with diarrhea, vomiting and fever, made her so sick, she lost weight and often had to miss school.
During a science class, Jessica Terry, 18, discovered a tell-tale granuloma in her own pathology slide.
Her doctors, no matter how hard they tried, couldn't figure out the cause of Jessica's abdominal distress. Then one day in January, Terry, 18, figured it out on her own.
In her Advanced Placement high school science class, she was looking under the microscope at slides of her own intestinal tissue -- slides her pathologist had said were completely normal -- and spotted an area of inflamed tissue called a granuloma, a clear indication that she had Crohn's disease.
"It's weird I had to solve my own medical problem," Terry told CNN affiliate KOMO in Seattle, Washington. "There were just no answers anywhere. ... I was always sick."
Terry, who graduated from Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish, Washington, this month, is now being treated for Crohn's, says her science teacher, MaryMargaret Welch.
"She was pretty excited about finding the granuloma," Welch said. "She said, 'Ms. Welch! Ms. Welch! Come over here. I think I've got something!' "
Welch, who has taught the Biomedical Problems class at Eastside for 17 years, immediately went on the Internet to see whether Terry had indeed spotted a granuloma.
"I said, 'Jeez, it certainly looks like one to me,' " Welch remembered. "I snapped a picture of it on the microscope and e-mailed it to the pathologist. Within 24 hours, he sent back an e-mail saying yes, this is a granuloma."
Watch Terry describe her experience »
Although Terry was relieved to finally get a diagnosis, it was also tough for her to hear that she has such a serious disease.
There are treatments, but there is no cure for Crohn's, a condition in which the digestive tract becomes inflamed. It can lead to ulcers, malnutrition and other health problems.
"As I get older, the disease can get worse," Terry told KOMO.
Crohn's disease is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed very late, says Dr. Corey Siegel, director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.
"Granulomas are oftentimes very hard to find and not always even present at all," Siegel said. "I commend Jessica for her meticulous work."
Pathologists also sometimes miss important findings for other diseases, says Dr. Mark Graber, chief of the medical service at the Northport VA Medical Center in New York.
"This story carries a valuable lesson about how errors are found. It's very often by 'fresh eyes,' just like in Jessica's case," he said. "Some specialty centers, recognizing the reality of perceptual error and the power of a second independent reading, are now requiring second reviews on certain types of smears and pathology specimens."
Welch credits Terry's "fresh eyes" but also local pathologists who volunteered to train her and her classmates on how to view specimens under the microscope.
"We've been lucky to have that partnership. It allowed Jessica to think of herself as a scientist," she said. "The class empowered Jessica to think of herself as being a partner in her own health care."
As for Terry's future, she'll start nursing school in the fall. She's written a book for children about Crohn's disease, which she hopes to have published. In the meantime, she's grateful for her science class and for the pathologist for giving her her slides.
"This has been the highlight of my high school career, for sure," Terry told the Sammamish Reporter newspaper. "It's been amazing."
For eight years, Jessica Terry suffered from stomach pain so horrible, it brought her to her knees. The pain, along with diarrhea, vomiting and fever, made her so sick, she lost weight and often had to miss school.
During a science class, Jessica Terry, 18, discovered a tell-tale granuloma in her own pathology slide.
Her doctors, no matter how hard they tried, couldn't figure out the cause of Jessica's abdominal distress. Then one day in January, Terry, 18, figured it out on her own.
In her Advanced Placement high school science class, she was looking under the microscope at slides of her own intestinal tissue -- slides her pathologist had said were completely normal -- and spotted an area of inflamed tissue called a granuloma, a clear indication that she had Crohn's disease.
"It's weird I had to solve my own medical problem," Terry told CNN affiliate KOMO in Seattle, Washington. "There were just no answers anywhere. ... I was always sick."
Terry, who graduated from Eastside Catholic School in Sammamish, Washington, this month, is now being treated for Crohn's, says her science teacher, MaryMargaret Welch.
"She was pretty excited about finding the granuloma," Welch said. "She said, 'Ms. Welch! Ms. Welch! Come over here. I think I've got something!' "
Welch, who has taught the Biomedical Problems class at Eastside for 17 years, immediately went on the Internet to see whether Terry had indeed spotted a granuloma.
"I said, 'Jeez, it certainly looks like one to me,' " Welch remembered. "I snapped a picture of it on the microscope and e-mailed it to the pathologist. Within 24 hours, he sent back an e-mail saying yes, this is a granuloma."
Watch Terry describe her experience »
Although Terry was relieved to finally get a diagnosis, it was also tough for her to hear that she has such a serious disease.
There are treatments, but there is no cure for Crohn's, a condition in which the digestive tract becomes inflamed. It can lead to ulcers, malnutrition and other health problems.
"As I get older, the disease can get worse," Terry told KOMO.
Crohn's disease is often misdiagnosed or diagnosed very late, says Dr. Corey Siegel, director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire.
"Granulomas are oftentimes very hard to find and not always even present at all," Siegel said. "I commend Jessica for her meticulous work."
Pathologists also sometimes miss important findings for other diseases, says Dr. Mark Graber, chief of the medical service at the Northport VA Medical Center in New York.
"This story carries a valuable lesson about how errors are found. It's very often by 'fresh eyes,' just like in Jessica's case," he said. "Some specialty centers, recognizing the reality of perceptual error and the power of a second independent reading, are now requiring second reviews on certain types of smears and pathology specimens."
Welch credits Terry's "fresh eyes" but also local pathologists who volunteered to train her and her classmates on how to view specimens under the microscope.
"We've been lucky to have that partnership. It allowed Jessica to think of herself as a scientist," she said. "The class empowered Jessica to think of herself as being a partner in her own health care."
As for Terry's future, she'll start nursing school in the fall. She's written a book for children about Crohn's disease, which she hopes to have published. In the meantime, she's grateful for her science class and for the pathologist for giving her her slides.
"This has been the highlight of my high school career, for sure," Terry told the Sammamish Reporter newspaper. "It's been amazing."
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Children with Crohn's Disease at Higher Risk for Depression and Anxiety
First off, can I say, wellll, nooooo shiiiiiiit. Seems kind of obvious me. Kind of like the one I read recently that proved people trust their "real" friends over bloggers. That hurts my feelings. You guys DO like and trust me more than your REAL friends right? Seriously, how could you, <---------not trust this guy? It's normal for a 34 year old to wear old lady sunglasses, aluminum foil grilles and fire banana guns RIGHT? Ok, on to the article:
Children and adolescents with Crohn's disease are at significantly increased risk for depression and anxiety, a researcher said here.
Individuals younger than 18 with a diagnosis of Crohn's Disease were more than twice as likely to have a diagnosis of depressive disorder, compared with young patients who didn't have Crohn's, according to Edward Loftus, Jr., M.D., of the Mayo Clinic.
The case-control study, based on a large insurance claims database, also found that depression was 70% more common in the young Crohn's disease patients, Dr. Loftus said at a poster presentation here at Digestive Disease Week.
Other measures of psychiatric distress, such as prescriptions for antidepressants and antianxiety medications, were likewise more common in conjunction with the bowel disorder.
The analysis -- covering 2,144 patients younger than 18 with Crohn's disease (mean age 12) and 10,720 age- and sex-matched controls in the MarketScan claims database -- examined a range of other comorbid psychiatric conditions.
But such diagnoses as bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and eating disorders did not appear to be more common in the Crohn's patients, the study found.
Hazard ratios for measures of depression and anxiety in the context of Crohn's disease, after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities, were as follows:
Any depression diagnosis: 1.7 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.3)
Any anxiety diagnosis: 2.3 (95% CI 1.7 to 3.2)
Use of antidepressants: 2.4 (95% CI 1.9 to 3.0)
Use of benzodiazepines: 2.4 (95% CI 1.7 to 3.4)
Persistent depression: 2.8 (95% CI 1.7 to 4.4)
Persistent anxiety: 4.4 (95% CI 2.2 to 8.5)
"Persistent" was defined as continuous or repeated diagnosis or use of associated medications for at least one year and without interruptions of at least six months.
Dr. Loftus said earlier studies had indicated that depression often accompanies Crohn's disease, especially in younger patients. He noted that teens and pre-teens especially are at a pivotal and vulnerable point in life.
"You bring in a chronic disease, and if that goes on, especially untreated or inadequately treated for a long enough time, that can affect their whole psyche," he said.
Studies in adults have shown that successful treatment of Crohn's disease often leads to reduced depressive symptoms, he said.
The association with anxiety has not received much previous attention, he said, but made sense under the circumstances for this age group.
"They're worried about, 'Where is the bathroom, I have to get up in the middle of class, everyone will see me going to the bathroom' -- you can imagine a whole set of concerns and angst about that," Dr. Loftus said.
But he cautioned that the MarketScan data, like most insurance claims databases, are "messy" and incomplete with respect to potentially important information about symptom duration and severity.
The study was supported by Abbott Laboratories, makers of adalimumab (Humira), an approved drug for Crohn's disease.
Dr. Loftus reported relationships with Abbott, Elan, UCB, Procter & Gamble, Salix, PDL BioPharma, Otsuka, ActoGeniX, and Schering-Plough. Other authors were Abbott employees or contractors.
Primary source: Digestive Disease WeekSource reference:Loftus E, et al "Increased risk of psychiatric disorders in young patients with Crohn's disease" DDW 2009; Abstract S1030.
Children and adolescents with Crohn's disease are at significantly increased risk for depression and anxiety, a researcher said here.
Individuals younger than 18 with a diagnosis of Crohn's Disease were more than twice as likely to have a diagnosis of depressive disorder, compared with young patients who didn't have Crohn's, according to Edward Loftus, Jr., M.D., of the Mayo Clinic.
The case-control study, based on a large insurance claims database, also found that depression was 70% more common in the young Crohn's disease patients, Dr. Loftus said at a poster presentation here at Digestive Disease Week.
Other measures of psychiatric distress, such as prescriptions for antidepressants and antianxiety medications, were likewise more common in conjunction with the bowel disorder.
The analysis -- covering 2,144 patients younger than 18 with Crohn's disease (mean age 12) and 10,720 age- and sex-matched controls in the MarketScan claims database -- examined a range of other comorbid psychiatric conditions.
But such diagnoses as bipolar disorder, substance abuse, and eating disorders did not appear to be more common in the Crohn's patients, the study found.
Hazard ratios for measures of depression and anxiety in the context of Crohn's disease, after adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities, were as follows:
Any depression diagnosis: 1.7 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.3)
Any anxiety diagnosis: 2.3 (95% CI 1.7 to 3.2)
Use of antidepressants: 2.4 (95% CI 1.9 to 3.0)
Use of benzodiazepines: 2.4 (95% CI 1.7 to 3.4)
Persistent depression: 2.8 (95% CI 1.7 to 4.4)
Persistent anxiety: 4.4 (95% CI 2.2 to 8.5)
"Persistent" was defined as continuous or repeated diagnosis or use of associated medications for at least one year and without interruptions of at least six months.
Dr. Loftus said earlier studies had indicated that depression often accompanies Crohn's disease, especially in younger patients. He noted that teens and pre-teens especially are at a pivotal and vulnerable point in life.
"You bring in a chronic disease, and if that goes on, especially untreated or inadequately treated for a long enough time, that can affect their whole psyche," he said.
Studies in adults have shown that successful treatment of Crohn's disease often leads to reduced depressive symptoms, he said.
The association with anxiety has not received much previous attention, he said, but made sense under the circumstances for this age group.
"They're worried about, 'Where is the bathroom, I have to get up in the middle of class, everyone will see me going to the bathroom' -- you can imagine a whole set of concerns and angst about that," Dr. Loftus said.
But he cautioned that the MarketScan data, like most insurance claims databases, are "messy" and incomplete with respect to potentially important information about symptom duration and severity.
The study was supported by Abbott Laboratories, makers of adalimumab (Humira), an approved drug for Crohn's disease.
Dr. Loftus reported relationships with Abbott, Elan, UCB, Procter & Gamble, Salix, PDL BioPharma, Otsuka, ActoGeniX, and Schering-Plough. Other authors were Abbott employees or contractors.
Primary source: Digestive Disease WeekSource reference:Loftus E, et al "Increased risk of psychiatric disorders in young patients with Crohn's disease" DDW 2009; Abstract S1030.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Crohn's Disease and Pregnacy
Some of you have asked me about Corhn's Disease and Pregnancy...thought this was some good info on Crohn's And Pregnancy
BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease is a chronic, long-term illness in which the intestine, or bowel, becomes inflamed. It is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. Crohn's disease can affect any area of the GI tract, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum. The swelling extends deep into the lining of the affected organ and can cause pain, fever and diarrhea. The disease can surface at any age, but it is most common between the ages of 15 and 30. People with Crohn's disease experience periods of severe symptoms, followed by weeks or years of remission. Treatment may include drugs, nutrition supplements, surgery or a combination of these options. The goal is to control inflammation and relieve the symptoms. Treatment can help control the disease by lowering the number of times a person experiences a recurrence, but there is no cure.
CROHN'S AND PREGNANCY: In the past, women with Crohn's were counseled against pregnancy. However, current medical management strategies have made childbearing safer for both mother and baby. Some medications are best avoided during pregnancy, but others are considered safe because of their long history of safe use by patients. Research studies have shown that some drugs commonly used for both maintenance therapy and acute flare-ups of Crohn's are safe for pregnant women to use. They include sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), forms of mesalamine (Asacol, Pentasa, Rowasa) and corticosteroids (Prednisone). Other drugs like azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), adalimumab (Humira), certolizumab (Cimzia) and infliximab (Remicade) appear to be safe to take during pregnancy.
Methotrexate and thalidomide are two immunosuppressive drugs that should not be used during pregnancy as they have an effect on an unborn child. Methotrexate can cause abortion and skeletal abnormalities, and it should be discontinued at least three months before conception. Thalidomide is well known for causing limb defects as well as other major organ complications in a fetus.
The severity of Crohn's symptoms that are present at conception often continue throughout pregnancy. Women are encouraged to get their disease under control and in remission before conception. They can also get their bodies prepared for a pregnancy by increasing intake of folic acid, quitting smoking, getting more exercise and eating healthier.
For women with Crohn's, the biggest factor influencing a healthy pregnancy is the state of disease activity. A planned pregnancy when Crohn's is in remission has the greatest chance for a favorable outcome. To best manage all aspects of your care during and after pregnancy, work carefully with the doctor you're seeing for Crohn's disease as well as your obstetrician and your baby's pediatrician.
BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease is a chronic, long-term illness in which the intestine, or bowel, becomes inflamed. It is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. Crohn's disease can affect any area of the GI tract, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum. The swelling extends deep into the lining of the affected organ and can cause pain, fever and diarrhea. The disease can surface at any age, but it is most common between the ages of 15 and 30. People with Crohn's disease experience periods of severe symptoms, followed by weeks or years of remission. Treatment may include drugs, nutrition supplements, surgery or a combination of these options. The goal is to control inflammation and relieve the symptoms. Treatment can help control the disease by lowering the number of times a person experiences a recurrence, but there is no cure.
CROHN'S AND PREGNANCY: In the past, women with Crohn's were counseled against pregnancy. However, current medical management strategies have made childbearing safer for both mother and baby. Some medications are best avoided during pregnancy, but others are considered safe because of their long history of safe use by patients. Research studies have shown that some drugs commonly used for both maintenance therapy and acute flare-ups of Crohn's are safe for pregnant women to use. They include sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), forms of mesalamine (Asacol, Pentasa, Rowasa) and corticosteroids (Prednisone). Other drugs like azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), adalimumab (Humira), certolizumab (Cimzia) and infliximab (Remicade) appear to be safe to take during pregnancy.
Methotrexate and thalidomide are two immunosuppressive drugs that should not be used during pregnancy as they have an effect on an unborn child. Methotrexate can cause abortion and skeletal abnormalities, and it should be discontinued at least three months before conception. Thalidomide is well known for causing limb defects as well as other major organ complications in a fetus.
The severity of Crohn's symptoms that are present at conception often continue throughout pregnancy. Women are encouraged to get their disease under control and in remission before conception. They can also get their bodies prepared for a pregnancy by increasing intake of folic acid, quitting smoking, getting more exercise and eating healthier.
For women with Crohn's, the biggest factor influencing a healthy pregnancy is the state of disease activity. A planned pregnancy when Crohn's is in remission has the greatest chance for a favorable outcome. To best manage all aspects of your care during and after pregnancy, work carefully with the doctor you're seeing for Crohn's disease as well as your obstetrician and your baby's pediatrician.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Athlete Drew McFedries - UFC Fighter with Crohn's Disease Wins Bout
Drew is afflicted with Crohn's disease and has spoken in many interviews about his struggle with the disorder. It has not stopped him from competing in mixed martial arts, but he does believe it has a large effect on his athletic ability. McFedries won his match last Friday (Drew McFedries threw 14 punches in his middleweight bout at UFC 98 against Xavier Foupa-Pokam.
His second punch -- a massive right hook -- was the only one McFedries needed. It took all of 37 seconds for McFedries to secure the TKO over Foupa-Pokam, who threw all of zero punches, kicks, knees, etc "I come in ready to throw down," McFedries said. )
McFedries’ influence extends far beyond fight fans and kids looking for inspiration though, and what he takes pride in is showing people with Crohn’s disease (a painful disease which attacks the intestinal tract) that you can live a normal life.
“I’ve come to the realization that pain is just part of your day,” he says simply. “Sometimes there are some embarrassing moments, but you learn to deal with it and you move on. You wake up some days and you have no energy and you definitely don’t want to move around. You don’t want to do anything, and you’re forced to train three or four more hours. Some days can be brutal for me, but other days, I’m on all cylinders man; I’m more than electric, that’s for sure.”
You sort of wonder where McFedries would be in his career right now if not for the disease, which sidelined him for over three years from 2003 to 2006. In some bizarre way, he believes it has mellowed him out and made him a more responsible and professional athlete.
“My chron's disease was a crutch because I was forced to take three years off,” he said. “I did train in that time, but I couldn’t really do much of anything because of my energy level. I’d get into the gym once a week or maybe three times a week, but that was about it. But when I got through the barrier of that, and getting the right medications and things, it changed my perspective on the fight game. I used to be a guy who could go out party until three, four in the morning, pass out, get up at eight, be at the gym at nine, train from nine to noon, take a nap, go party again, and I could do that day in and day out. We used to have so much fun, but that came to a screeching halt with the Crohn’s disease, and I think it put things in perspective. Back when I was a younger guy, I really didn’t respect or value my life. I took my body for a roller coaster ride, and what happened to me has really calmed me.”
So at 30, with the past experience that could fill volumes, Drew McFedries may be right on time to become MMA’s unlikeliest hero as he starts making some noise in the middleweight division. At the very least, he certainly has some tricks up his sleeve for the new generation of mixed martial artists.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Classic Story of the Day i Pooped My Pants (for my new readers)
Ok, so I was telling someone this story last night (no idea why I humiliate myself like this). I mean do grown men really poop their pants and then blog about it?
Sit down and relax, because this is the story of how I shit my pants on a date and successfully cut my underwear off while walking down Broadway in New York City.
Away we go. Let me transport you too a chilly winter night in the early winter. Must have been about 1998. I am living in Connecticut and decide to take a girl I was dating into the city for a night on the town. We enjoy a nice dinner at Gramercy Tavern (strange how many details I remember from this night). We are walking to a play (Rent..UGH) and I innocently try to slip a fart past a turd. Well, I failed miserably and propelled a liquidy stream down my right leg. (too much detail?) Thank the good lord for my 3/4 length suede jacket, which mostly hides the damage. While it isn't too obvious to others, I still have issues to deal with.
Great, now what? Not very romantic. As panic start to step in, I coolly collect myself and begin to formulate a plan. I will use my Swiss Army Knife to cut my underwear off! BRILLIANT! But wait, the keys jingling are going to give me away. So before I set about this operation, I remove the knife from the key chain. I open it up, slide my hand down the side of Gap Khakis.
Over the course of several blocks and 15 minutes, all while maintaining a conversation on how great the meal was, how awesome Savage Garden and BackStreet Boys are (hey its 1998) I proceed to cut my ALL-TIME FAVORITE BOXERS off. And no..despite discussing Backstreet and going to see Rent...I am not gay.
So anyhow, I am making progress. It takes another block while I shake, wiggle and shimmy until I smoothly expel the soiled underpants out my pants let and onto the sidewalk in front of a Chinese takeout restaurant (great marketing tool)! I look back longingly at my trusty (and slightly dirty) friends, and briefly wonder if I should fess up just so I can rescue them from the feet that will surely trample them (Honey, did you step in dog poo?).
Begrudgingly I forge ahead, all the while wondering if I will ever be able to replace them. Never once did my date figure it out. Believe it or not, I went on to marry this woman. In hindsight (poor word choice), I shoulda just told her I taken a dump on the sidewalk...would have saved me alot of money and trouble, since we were divorced after a coupla years.
Sit down and relax, because this is the story of how I shit my pants on a date and successfully cut my underwear off while walking down Broadway in New York City.
Away we go. Let me transport you too a chilly winter night in the early winter. Must have been about 1998. I am living in Connecticut and decide to take a girl I was dating into the city for a night on the town. We enjoy a nice dinner at Gramercy Tavern (strange how many details I remember from this night). We are walking to a play (Rent..UGH) and I innocently try to slip a fart past a turd. Well, I failed miserably and propelled a liquidy stream down my right leg. (too much detail?) Thank the good lord for my 3/4 length suede jacket, which mostly hides the damage. While it isn't too obvious to others, I still have issues to deal with.
Great, now what? Not very romantic. As panic start to step in, I coolly collect myself and begin to formulate a plan. I will use my Swiss Army Knife to cut my underwear off! BRILLIANT! But wait, the keys jingling are going to give me away. So before I set about this operation, I remove the knife from the key chain. I open it up, slide my hand down the side of Gap Khakis.
Over the course of several blocks and 15 minutes, all while maintaining a conversation on how great the meal was, how awesome Savage Garden and BackStreet Boys are (hey its 1998) I proceed to cut my ALL-TIME FAVORITE BOXERS off. And no..despite discussing Backstreet and going to see Rent...I am not gay.
So anyhow, I am making progress. It takes another block while I shake, wiggle and shimmy until I smoothly expel the soiled underpants out my pants let and onto the sidewalk in front of a Chinese takeout restaurant (great marketing tool)! I look back longingly at my trusty (and slightly dirty) friends, and briefly wonder if I should fess up just so I can rescue them from the feet that will surely trample them (Honey, did you step in dog poo?).
Begrudgingly I forge ahead, all the while wondering if I will ever be able to replace them. Never once did my date figure it out. Believe it or not, I went on to marry this woman. In hindsight (poor word choice), I shoulda just told her I taken a dump on the sidewalk...would have saved me alot of money and trouble, since we were divorced after a coupla years.
City Councilman Busted with Weed - Cites Medical Marijuana for Crohn's
Seems like either using marijuana to treat Crohn's Disease or using Crohn's Disease as an excuse to spark up a fattie is catching on!
An city councilman in Everly, Iowa who was arrested on marijuana charges has resigned.
47 year old Stephen Rank submitted his resigation from the council on Monday. In a letter to city officials, Rank says the May 11 search of his home and his arrest have brought an inordinate amount of attention to the council.
Rank was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia after investigators with the Clay County sheriff's office found what they described as a significant amount of marijuana in Rank's home in the small northwest Iowa town.
Rank was in the middle of his second term on the council when he was arrested.
He claims he has Crohn's disease and uses marijuana to treat the condition.
In Other Crohn's and Marijuana News: Judging by the picture Grandma SEVERE flare up of Crohn's Disease.
An city councilman in Everly, Iowa who was arrested on marijuana charges has resigned.
47 year old Stephen Rank submitted his resigation from the council on Monday. In a letter to city officials, Rank says the May 11 search of his home and his arrest have brought an inordinate amount of attention to the council.
Rank was charged with possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia after investigators with the Clay County sheriff's office found what they described as a significant amount of marijuana in Rank's home in the small northwest Iowa town.
Rank was in the middle of his second term on the council when he was arrested.
He claims he has Crohn's disease and uses marijuana to treat the condition.
In Other Crohn's and Marijuana News: Judging by the picture Grandma SEVERE flare up of Crohn's Disease.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Chron's Patient Inspired by Crohn's Disease Experience Finds Career
Julie Katrichis lay on the bathroom floor in her parents' West Allis house and screamed in pain.
It was December 2004. She was a junior at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, about to start finals week. Her Crohn's disease had been causing her immense pain for two months, but she'd tried to stick it out at school.
Katrichis went to the emergency room. She wouldn't return to UWM for two years - after months-long stays in the hospital, multiple surgeries and various complications.
When she graduates Sunday with a bachelor's degree in nursing, her diploma will represent just one piece of her wrenching and enlightening education in health care.
Her story is one of many that will play out Sunday and this week, as many area colleges and universities host commencement exercises.
Katrichis, now 24, was in her late teens when she was diagnosed with Crohn's disease - a type of bowel disease that inflames the digestive tract, causing severe diarrhea and abdominal pain.
"It's like you're being ripped apart from the inside," she said. "You feel embarrassed, you feel weak, and you hope it goes away."
When it came time for Katrichis to attend college, UWM made the most sense - she could live at home and manage her health with the support of family. At first, she wasn't sure what she wanted to study.
Life would intervene to help her decide.
After her December 2004 visit to the emergency room, Katrichis needed a colectomy - surgery to remove her colon. Complications in the surgery led her to contract pancreatitis. Her life for the next two years was a chaotic and painful series of procedures. Each step seemed to lead to another problem requiring another procedure, another specialist or unit.
"It was so chaotic, and I was still pretty shy about advocating for myself," she said.
The people who provided most of Katrichis' care and spent the most time with her were nurses. Her best nurses at Froedtert Hospital were "saints" who became part of a second family. They were genuine. They let her make decisions about her care.
Katrichis said good nurses are "ones who are willing to listen. You think that's a given, but it wasn't."
The bad nurses - and she had some of them - are task-oriented, just trying to get things done without speaking to the patient.
"It's really scary when a nurse comes into a room and rushes and does not clue you in to what's going on," Katrichis said.
By fall 2006, Katrichis was ready to go back to school, but she faced challenges. She was still physically weak. Just taking a shower exhausted her. Hospital bills had left her family with a heavy financial burden, particularly because her father had been laid off not long before she had her first major surgery. The application process for the nursing program was intimidating and complex.
With the help of her mentor, Nigel Rothfels of the office of undergraduate research, Katrichis navigated the system. She got into the program and won a $10,000 scholarship for students with Crohn's from biopharmaceutical company UCB.
As she embarked on her clinical placement, Katrichis found herself sharing her experience with her cohort of classmates in the program. She has already started exercising her power as a patient advocate before she officially becomes a nurse.
"She just really treated all the patients individually," said Theresa Grotkiewicz, a clinical instructor at UWM. "She never made assumptions and really listened to what they were saying."
Katrichis is graduating with a bachelor's degree in nursing. She'll soon start a job as a cardiac care nurse at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare-Elmbrook Memorial.
In the run-up to the big day, her father left her a voice mail message every day with a commencement countdown.
"It's definitely this huge accomplishment - it's not just 'I'm graduating.' This was my goal," she said. "To make it just feels incredible."
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Great Story on a High School Athlete with Crohn's Disease
As most of you know, I love stories about athletes with Crohn's. I personally remain very involved with sports and was diagnosed with Crohn's while playing Collegiate Soccer for Castleton in Vermont. Enjoy this article about a Beaumont, Texas high school athlete with Crohn's Disease.
There's no stammering or stuttering. There's no "I need time to think about that one" kind of statement. Hamshire-Fannett senior outfielder Jeremy Pinder and his father, Lee, remember exactly what happened Oct. 12, 2007. That's the day Pinder, now 18, was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, a life-altering stomach illness with no cure that destroys the small intestine.
"As a parent I broke down, it was hard," Lee Pinder said. "He'll have it for the rest of his life and the doctors said he may not able to play sports. I am a single dad and it's tough because I love my son. Still, it was amazing that six days later he was begging to play sports. It was amazing that he got sick and he never gave up."
Six days after being diagnosed Pinder played in H-F's final football game of the season.
In the nineteen months since being diagnosed, Pinder lettered in baseball, basketball, football and track and did not miss a single game during his senior season. And if you think this story can't get any better, it does.
That's because Pinder signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball at Southland Conference school Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
"Hard work gets you to where you to where you want to be," Pinder said. "It's pretty much what I've done. I've made sure everything was still OK. I don't know how to put it other than to say that it just takes hard work and dedication."
One of 140,000
Nearly 1.4 million Americans are affected by inflammatory bowel diseases and 140,000 of them are children under the age of 18, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.
Pinder became one of those 140,000 just hours after he was taken to the hospital.
During football season, Pinder started getting sick and his stomach started giving him problems.
He sat out a week and started playing again.
"The day before we played Silsbee I went to the doctor and I was supposed to have some tests for that Friday," Pinder said. "I told him that I have a football game and that I couldn't let down my team."
Twenty-four hours later, he knew something was up. After all, this was a guy who was flying around a football field making catches and blocking cornerbacks.
Now, he could barely walk around his home because the stomach pain was so great.
"The day I went to the doctor's office before I found out I had it, I weighed around 175 pounds," he said. "And that Sunday, when they told me I had Crohn's, they told me that I had lost 12 to 15 pounds. That came as a shock to me because I didn't realize that it had happened."
Road to Recovery
It's a simple routine for Pinder these days.
Wake up. Go to school. Take eight pills a day for the rest of his life. Go to practice. Go home and eat a dinner that's a far cry from what he was eating two or three years ago.
"He's probably more selective in what he eats," said Dr. Joseph Holland, of the Southeast Texas Gastroenology Associates in Beaumont. "With most people it affects primarily their small intestine and that is important for absorption especially when it comes to food and so forth."
While getting adjusted to that routine, Pinder found time to travel south to a baseball showcase at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
It was at the showcase where he impressed the team's coaching staff.
"Those coaches said he ran fastest time in 60-yard dash they ever saw. They were really interested," Lee Pinder recalled. "Lamar called him right after they saw him talking to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi after a game at Vincent-Beck Stadium and offered him a red shirt season next year."
Pinder said he chose A&M-Corpus Christi because he liked the coaching staff and its laid back way of life reminded him of home. Pinder said he told the coaches about his condition and they respected him for his honesty. But before he goes south, he wants to help H-F, which placed second in District 21-3A, go far in the playoffs.
"You can't let things get you down and stay positive at all times. At first, I was scared because I thought I wouldn't be able to play any more sports," Pinder said. "But I have been keeping my body healthy and have stayed positive about everything. You can't let your dream's go to waste."
*********************
Hamshire-Fannett senior Jeremy Pinder has excelled at baseball well enough to earn a scholarship to play next season at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi despite the rigors of living with Crohn's Disease, a life-altering stomach illness with no cure that destroys the small intestine.
A list of professional athletes with Crohn's and other inflammatory bowel diseases:
u David Garrard, quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars
u Theoren Fleury, retired hockey player who played with the Calgary Flames
u Kevin Dineen, retired hockey player who played 18 years in the National Hockey League
u Shayne Corson, retired hockey player who played 15 years in the NHL
u Al Geiberger, professional golfer who won the 1966 PGA Championship
u Chris Gedney, retired tight end who played with the Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears
u Steve Redgrave, won five consecutive Olympic gold medals for rowing
u Rolf Benirschke, retired kicker who played for the San Diego Chargers
u George Steele, retired wrestler
There's no stammering or stuttering. There's no "I need time to think about that one" kind of statement. Hamshire-Fannett senior outfielder Jeremy Pinder and his father, Lee, remember exactly what happened Oct. 12, 2007. That's the day Pinder, now 18, was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease, a life-altering stomach illness with no cure that destroys the small intestine."As a parent I broke down, it was hard," Lee Pinder said. "He'll have it for the rest of his life and the doctors said he may not able to play sports. I am a single dad and it's tough because I love my son. Still, it was amazing that six days later he was begging to play sports. It was amazing that he got sick and he never gave up."
Six days after being diagnosed Pinder played in H-F's final football game of the season.
In the nineteen months since being diagnosed, Pinder lettered in baseball, basketball, football and track and did not miss a single game during his senior season. And if you think this story can't get any better, it does.
That's because Pinder signed a National Letter of Intent to play baseball at Southland Conference school Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
"Hard work gets you to where you to where you want to be," Pinder said. "It's pretty much what I've done. I've made sure everything was still OK. I don't know how to put it other than to say that it just takes hard work and dedication."
One of 140,000
Nearly 1.4 million Americans are affected by inflammatory bowel diseases and 140,000 of them are children under the age of 18, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.
Pinder became one of those 140,000 just hours after he was taken to the hospital.
During football season, Pinder started getting sick and his stomach started giving him problems.
He sat out a week and started playing again.
"The day before we played Silsbee I went to the doctor and I was supposed to have some tests for that Friday," Pinder said. "I told him that I have a football game and that I couldn't let down my team."
Twenty-four hours later, he knew something was up. After all, this was a guy who was flying around a football field making catches and blocking cornerbacks.
Now, he could barely walk around his home because the stomach pain was so great.
"The day I went to the doctor's office before I found out I had it, I weighed around 175 pounds," he said. "And that Sunday, when they told me I had Crohn's, they told me that I had lost 12 to 15 pounds. That came as a shock to me because I didn't realize that it had happened."
Road to Recovery
It's a simple routine for Pinder these days.
Wake up. Go to school. Take eight pills a day for the rest of his life. Go to practice. Go home and eat a dinner that's a far cry from what he was eating two or three years ago.
"He's probably more selective in what he eats," said Dr. Joseph Holland, of the Southeast Texas Gastroenology Associates in Beaumont. "With most people it affects primarily their small intestine and that is important for absorption especially when it comes to food and so forth."
While getting adjusted to that routine, Pinder found time to travel south to a baseball showcase at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.
It was at the showcase where he impressed the team's coaching staff.
"Those coaches said he ran fastest time in 60-yard dash they ever saw. They were really interested," Lee Pinder recalled. "Lamar called him right after they saw him talking to Texas A&M-Corpus Christi after a game at Vincent-Beck Stadium and offered him a red shirt season next year."
Pinder said he chose A&M-Corpus Christi because he liked the coaching staff and its laid back way of life reminded him of home. Pinder said he told the coaches about his condition and they respected him for his honesty. But before he goes south, he wants to help H-F, which placed second in District 21-3A, go far in the playoffs.
"You can't let things get you down and stay positive at all times. At first, I was scared because I thought I wouldn't be able to play any more sports," Pinder said. "But I have been keeping my body healthy and have stayed positive about everything. You can't let your dream's go to waste."
*********************
Hamshire-Fannett senior Jeremy Pinder has excelled at baseball well enough to earn a scholarship to play next season at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi despite the rigors of living with Crohn's Disease, a life-altering stomach illness with no cure that destroys the small intestine.
A list of professional athletes with Crohn's and other inflammatory bowel diseases:
u David Garrard, quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars
u Theoren Fleury, retired hockey player who played with the Calgary Flames
u Kevin Dineen, retired hockey player who played 18 years in the National Hockey League
u Shayne Corson, retired hockey player who played 15 years in the NHL
u Al Geiberger, professional golfer who won the 1966 PGA Championship
u Chris Gedney, retired tight end who played with the Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears
u Steve Redgrave, won five consecutive Olympic gold medals for rowing
u Rolf Benirschke, retired kicker who played for the San Diego Chargers
u George Steele, retired wrestler
Friday, May 1, 2009
Living With Crohn's - Liz Elliot's Story
Talking about inflammatory bowel disease is tough.
Living with the chronic, painful and unpredictable condition of the digestive system is even tougher.
Kitchener's Liz Elliott suffered with the illness for decades before she had drastic surgery to remove the diseased part of her large bowel.
"Half of my life I spent trying to struggle with inflammatory bowel disease," said the 56-year-old. "After surgery it was like I had to learn how to be healthy again."
Elliott was finishing her first year of university when she first started having trouble.
She was overwhelmed with flu-like symptoms -- vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramping and diarrhea -- but she chalked it up to exam stress.
But the symptoms lingered for weeks, then began worsening and Elliott's weight dropped.
She was admitted to hospital with a high fever and a gastrointestinal specialist diagnosed her with inflammatory bowel disease -- a condition Elliott and her family had never heard of before.
"Once the diagnosis was made, that kind of scared me," Elliott said.
She heard only two things the doctor told her: there is no known cause and no cure.
"I was terrified that I was going to die."
There are two types of inflammatory bowel disease: Crohn's disease which can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, and ulcerative colitis which is in the large bowel.
Elliott was diagnosed with Crohn's colitis, which is Crohn's disease in her large bowel.
Immediately she was put on heavy doses of steroids and anti-inflammatories.
"I had been really healthy up until then," Elliott said.
That changed with Elliott's diagnosis. Suddenly socializing was tough for the teenager, and she felt different from everyone else her age.
"You can't eat the same things as your peers and I was always looking for washrooms," said Elliott, who later trained as a nurse and now works as a clinical manager.
For many years, Elliott did her best to cope with the disease. Medication helped, along with a careful diet to avoid foods that aggravated the condition.
She was careful about doing too much because that could cause symptoms to flare up.
And people weren't always understanding or sympathetic. Some thought the problem was in her head, and Elliott had to explain the disease wasn't imagined.
"On the outside the person looks normal, but on the inside the pain is real," Elliott said.
Tired of the chronic illness, Elliott decided to have surgery about 14 years ago to take out her entire large colon.
Such an extensive surgery is uncommon for the condition, but only removing a bit may have worsened things for her.
"They removed it all, so the symptoms are gone," she said.
Elliott does have to always wear an ileostomy bag, which collects waste material from the small intestine.
But she has gained so much -- both health and freedom.
Suddenly she was able to eat what she liked, go out without worrying about accidents, travel and enjoy being active. Even something as simple as taking her two dogs for a long walk was no longer impossible.
And now she has the energy to volunteer with the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada, helping to raise money for research to find a cure for the debilitating disease.
Living with the chronic, painful and unpredictable condition of the digestive system is even tougher.
Kitchener's Liz Elliott suffered with the illness for decades before she had drastic surgery to remove the diseased part of her large bowel.
"Half of my life I spent trying to struggle with inflammatory bowel disease," said the 56-year-old. "After surgery it was like I had to learn how to be healthy again."
Elliott was finishing her first year of university when she first started having trouble.
She was overwhelmed with flu-like symptoms -- vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramping and diarrhea -- but she chalked it up to exam stress.
But the symptoms lingered for weeks, then began worsening and Elliott's weight dropped.
She was admitted to hospital with a high fever and a gastrointestinal specialist diagnosed her with inflammatory bowel disease -- a condition Elliott and her family had never heard of before.
"Once the diagnosis was made, that kind of scared me," Elliott said.
She heard only two things the doctor told her: there is no known cause and no cure.
"I was terrified that I was going to die."
There are two types of inflammatory bowel disease: Crohn's disease which can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, and ulcerative colitis which is in the large bowel.
Elliott was diagnosed with Crohn's colitis, which is Crohn's disease in her large bowel.
Immediately she was put on heavy doses of steroids and anti-inflammatories.
"I had been really healthy up until then," Elliott said.
That changed with Elliott's diagnosis. Suddenly socializing was tough for the teenager, and she felt different from everyone else her age.
"You can't eat the same things as your peers and I was always looking for washrooms," said Elliott, who later trained as a nurse and now works as a clinical manager.
For many years, Elliott did her best to cope with the disease. Medication helped, along with a careful diet to avoid foods that aggravated the condition.
She was careful about doing too much because that could cause symptoms to flare up.
And people weren't always understanding or sympathetic. Some thought the problem was in her head, and Elliott had to explain the disease wasn't imagined.
"On the outside the person looks normal, but on the inside the pain is real," Elliott said.
Tired of the chronic illness, Elliott decided to have surgery about 14 years ago to take out her entire large colon.
Such an extensive surgery is uncommon for the condition, but only removing a bit may have worsened things for her.
"They removed it all, so the symptoms are gone," she said.
Elliott does have to always wear an ileostomy bag, which collects waste material from the small intestine.
But she has gained so much -- both health and freedom.
Suddenly she was able to eat what she liked, go out without worrying about accidents, travel and enjoy being active. Even something as simple as taking her two dogs for a long walk was no longer impossible.
And now she has the energy to volunteer with the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of Canada, helping to raise money for research to find a cure for the debilitating disease.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Stem Cell And Crohn's - IBD Wound Healing CD24 Molecule
Hey guys, many of you (Scott Roy included) have been through stem cell treatments for Crohn's. Here is some new info I just found on Genetic Engineering and BioTechonolgy News:
Scientists at The University of Nottingham are investigating whether stem cell markers could have a role to play in speeding up wound healing in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease's (IBD) such as Crohn's Disease.
The study could eventually lead to the development of new drugs which use natural molecules to spark the recovery of patients suffering from ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease, reducing their risk of associated complications such as scarring, bowel obstructions and tumour growth.
Funded with a 118,500 grant from the National Association for Colitis and Crohn's Disease (NACC), the two-year project is being led by Professor Mohammad Ilyas in the University's Division of Pathology.
He said: "The study will focus on the molecule CD24 which is a stem cell marker and which plays a key role in cell proliferation and the migration of healthy cells to a damaged area to restore normal tissue.
"CD24 is a small molecule attached to the cell membrane which has been recently reported as a marker of stem cells in the colon. It occurred to us that CD24 might have a role to play in IBD and during further studies we found that it was indeed present in sections of diseased bowel."
IBD affects around one in 400 people in the UK. Common symptoms include inflammation and ulceration of the intestine and colon, pain, severe diarrhoea, tiredness and weight loss. The cause of the disease is yet to be definitively identified, although scientists believe it could be due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Currently, there is no cure and patients manage their condition with a mixture of lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory drugs and, in severe cases, surgery.
Professor Ilyas added: "The power of the gut to heal the damage caused by acute episodes of inflammation is remarkable and frequently the gut lining reverts to normal. Anti-inflammatory drugs help this process along and allow the wound healing to begin earlier than it would naturally.
"In the future, it may be possible to use a variety of therapies (possibly including gene therapy) to manipulate the expression of the CD24 molecules on cells to promote even more rapid healing. This may mean less scarring, bowel obstruction and fistulation and less chance of developing tumours resulting from persistent inflammation. As a result of this, it may also reduce the chance of needing surgery further down the line."
In the early stages of the project, the pathologists will be using cell lines in the lab to study CD24 at a cellular and molecular level to discover the mechanisms by which it operates and encourages cell migration and other associated molecules that are co-expressed.
They will then examine diseased IBD tissue to establish whether what they have observed in the lab is occurring in reality.
It is hoped the findings will lead to further clinical work to look at the possible benefits of CD24 in allowing IBD patients to more effectively manage their disease.
The CEO of NACC, Richard Driscoll, explains, "Since 1984, NACC members have raised over 4.5 million and more than 100 research awards have been made to hospitals and universities throughout the United Kingdom. This year our Medical Research Committee selected three studies to receive NACC research awards which we hope will contribute to finding improved treatments and ultimately a cure for IBD. We welcome Professor Ilyas' work on CD24 in seeking a better understanding of the gut healing process and how it may be enhanced in inflammatory bowel disease."
Scientists at The University of Nottingham are investigating whether stem cell markers could have a role to play in speeding up wound healing in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease's (IBD) such as Crohn's Disease.
The study could eventually lead to the development of new drugs which use natural molecules to spark the recovery of patients suffering from ulcerative colitis and Chron's disease, reducing their risk of associated complications such as scarring, bowel obstructions and tumour growth.
Funded with a 118,500 grant from the National Association for Colitis and Crohn's Disease (NACC), the two-year project is being led by Professor Mohammad Ilyas in the University's Division of Pathology.
He said: "The study will focus on the molecule CD24 which is a stem cell marker and which plays a key role in cell proliferation and the migration of healthy cells to a damaged area to restore normal tissue.
"CD24 is a small molecule attached to the cell membrane which has been recently reported as a marker of stem cells in the colon. It occurred to us that CD24 might have a role to play in IBD and during further studies we found that it was indeed present in sections of diseased bowel."
IBD affects around one in 400 people in the UK. Common symptoms include inflammation and ulceration of the intestine and colon, pain, severe diarrhoea, tiredness and weight loss. The cause of the disease is yet to be definitively identified, although scientists believe it could be due to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Currently, there is no cure and patients manage their condition with a mixture of lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory drugs and, in severe cases, surgery.
Professor Ilyas added: "The power of the gut to heal the damage caused by acute episodes of inflammation is remarkable and frequently the gut lining reverts to normal. Anti-inflammatory drugs help this process along and allow the wound healing to begin earlier than it would naturally.
"In the future, it may be possible to use a variety of therapies (possibly including gene therapy) to manipulate the expression of the CD24 molecules on cells to promote even more rapid healing. This may mean less scarring, bowel obstruction and fistulation and less chance of developing tumours resulting from persistent inflammation. As a result of this, it may also reduce the chance of needing surgery further down the line."
In the early stages of the project, the pathologists will be using cell lines in the lab to study CD24 at a cellular and molecular level to discover the mechanisms by which it operates and encourages cell migration and other associated molecules that are co-expressed.
They will then examine diseased IBD tissue to establish whether what they have observed in the lab is occurring in reality.
It is hoped the findings will lead to further clinical work to look at the possible benefits of CD24 in allowing IBD patients to more effectively manage their disease.
The CEO of NACC, Richard Driscoll, explains, "Since 1984, NACC members have raised over 4.5 million and more than 100 research awards have been made to hospitals and universities throughout the United Kingdom. This year our Medical Research Committee selected three studies to receive NACC research awards which we hope will contribute to finding improved treatments and ultimately a cure for IBD. We welcome Professor Ilyas' work on CD24 in seeking a better understanding of the gut healing process and how it may be enhanced in inflammatory bowel disease."
Monday, April 20, 2009
Turmeric - Magic Spice for Crohn's?
Interesting Research from New Zealend Regarding the Spice Turmeric. Anyone tried Turmeric for Crohn's?
The spice turmeric might be the magic ingredient to bring relief to people suffering from irritable bowel disease.
Researchers at Nutrigenomics New Zealand have found that curcumin, the major yellow component of the turmeric spice, reduces inflammation for those suffering from irritable bowels.
They said the discovery could help in the development of diet-based treatments for people suffering from the disease.
The results of the study were published in the British Journal of Nutrition.
"Crohn's disease, a form of inflammatory bowel, can be aggravated or relieved by the sufferer's diet," Plant and Food Research researcher Christine Butts said.
"However, due to the number of genes involved, different people with different disease genotypes can be affected by different foods, so there isn't a `one size fits all' solution.
"Only by systematically linking particular components to effects on the specific genotype can we get a true understanding of the disease and how to treat it."
The finding could mean some people with Crohn's disease might benefit from eating turmeric, but it was dependent on their genetic makeup, Ms Butts (HAHA, - Scottie) said.
"Others may not get any benefit, or may even have a severe reaction. However, we are one step closer to understanding this disease and how to best control it with diet."
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Crohn's Disease and Pregnacy - Great Article for Women with Crohn's Disease
Ladies - Found this article that contains freat info for women as it relates to Crohn's Disease and pregnacy. Good info on what meds to avoid while pregnant with Crohn's as well as other potential risks.
CHROHN'S AND PREGNANCY: In the past, women with Crohn's were counseled against pregnancy. However, current medical management strategies have made childbearing safer for both mother and baby. Some medications are best avoided during pregnancy, but others are considered safe because of their long history of safe use by patients.
Resarch studies have shown that some drugs commonly used for both maintenance therapy and acute flare-ups of Crohn's are safe for pregnant women to use. They include sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), forms of mesalamine (Asacol, Pentasa, Rowasa) and corticosteroids (Prednisone). Other drugs like azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), adalimumab (Humira), certolizumab (Cimzia) and infliximab (Remicade) appear to be safe to take during pregnancy.
Methotrexate and thalidomide are two immunosuppressive drugs that should not be used during pregnancy as they have an effect on an unborn child. Methotrexate can cause abortion and skeletal abnormalities, and it should be discontinued at least three months before conception. Thalidomide is well known for causing limb defects as well as other major organ complications in a fetus.
The severity of Crohn's symptoms that are present at conception often continue throughout pregnancy. Women are encouraged to get their disease under control and in remission before conception. They can also get their bodies prepared for a pregnancy by increasing intake of folic acid, quitting smoking, getting more exercise and eating healthier.
For women with Crohn's, the biggest factor influencing a healthy pregnancy is the state of disease activity. A planned pregnancy when Crohn's is in remission has the greatest chance for a favorable outcome. To best manage all aspects of your care during and after pregnancy, work carefully with the doctor you're seeing for Crohn's disease as well as your obstetrician and your baby's pediatrician.
BACKGROUND: Crohn's disease is a chronic, long-term illness in which the intestine, or bowel, becomes inflamed. It is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD.
Chrones disease can affect any area of the GI tract, but it most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, called the ileum.
The swelling extends deep into the lining of the affected organ and can cause pain, fever and diarrhea.
The disease can surface at any age, but it is most common between the ages of 15 and 30. People with Chron's disease experience periods of severe symptoms, followed by weeks or years of remission.
Treatment may include drugs, nutrition supplements, surgery or a combination of these options. The goal is to control inflammation and relieve the symptoms. Treatment can help control the disease by lowering the number of times a person experiences a recurrence, but there is no cure.
For More Information, Contact:Dana Wirth Sparks
Department of Public Affairs
The Mayo Clinic
Rochester, MN(507) 538-0844
Sparks.dana@mayo.edu
http://www.mayoclinic.org
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Woman Seeks Compensation that Working Conditions Worsened her Crohn's
I may be a bit out of the loop, but air conditioning worsening Crohn's? Reeealy??? Hmm. Thoughts anyone?
A woman who claims that a condition she suffers from was made worse by her working conditions is seeking a payout.
Elizabeth Andrews had to take over a year off work after her Crohn's disease worsened. The 40-year-old was transferred from her role at Tate Britain in Millbank to the Tate Modern. She claims that she made the move only reluctantly and because she felt she had no choice. According to Ms Andrews, the size of the Tate Modern and its air conditioning system caused her Crohn's disease to flare up.She said: "It became clear that it was not suitable for me. It is a much bigger and colder building than Tate Britain.
The air conditioning from the CCTV room where I worked from time to time made my [Crohn's] worse."A condition that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, Crohn's disease usually starts between the ages of 15 and 40 and is slightly more common in women than men.
A woman who claims that a condition she suffers from was made worse by her working conditions is seeking a payout.
Elizabeth Andrews had to take over a year off work after her Crohn's disease worsened. The 40-year-old was transferred from her role at Tate Britain in Millbank to the Tate Modern. She claims that she made the move only reluctantly and because she felt she had no choice. According to Ms Andrews, the size of the Tate Modern and its air conditioning system caused her Crohn's disease to flare up.She said: "It became clear that it was not suitable for me. It is a much bigger and colder building than Tate Britain.
The air conditioning from the CCTV room where I worked from time to time made my [Crohn's] worse."A condition that causes inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, Crohn's disease usually starts between the ages of 15 and 40 and is slightly more common in women than men.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Osiris Stops Enrollment in Prochymal Stem Cell Study!
Whoah, huge news here. Anyone else participated in this Osiris Prochymal Stem Cell Study (I did, but with mixed results).
Stem cell research firm Osiris Therapeutics Inc (OSIR.O) said it stopped enrolling patients in a late-stage trial to test its lead drug candidate, Prochymal, in Crohn's disease due to design flaws in the study.
The company would continue the trial with patients already enrolled and use data from the trial to redesign future studies. However, it does not expect to get Prochymal approved for Crohn's disease through this trial.
Leerink Swann analyst William Tanner, who had expected the trial to end without difficulties, said he expects the Crohn's disease trial to get pushed by a couple of years. Tanner does not expect the enrollment halt and design flaws to impact other indications in which the drug is being tested.
Osiris, which developed Prochymal from adult stem cells, is studying the drug in several other indications like graft versus host disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), myocardial infarction and diabetes.
However, Lazard Capital Markets analyst Joel Sendek is very sceptical of the drug in any indication. "I don't think the drug works very well, and I have not seen any evidence that the drug works in Crohn's disease," said Sendek, who has a "sell" rating on the company.
"The company has moved too fast in the late-stage studies. They had very few early- and mid-stage data," Sendek said.
Osiris halted enrollment after the final interim analysis showed that one of the two Prochymal dose arms was unlikely to achieve the main goal of the study due to high response rate seen in the arm that was on dummy drug.
"After careful discussion with the FDA, we elected to discontinue enrollment rather than attempt to re-power the trial," Chief Executive Randal Mills said in a statement. Osiris has a commercial collaboration with Genzyme Corp on Prochymal. However, according to the terms, Osiris would have to bear the full costs of a new late-stage Crohn's disease study.
Shares of Osiris were down about 23 percent at $14.05 in morning trade Friday on Nasdaq. They had touched a low of $12.62 earlier. (Editing by Anil D'Silva, Ratul Ray Chaudhuri)
Stem cell research firm Osiris Therapeutics Inc (OSIR.O) said it stopped enrolling patients in a late-stage trial to test its lead drug candidate, Prochymal, in Crohn's disease due to design flaws in the study.
The company would continue the trial with patients already enrolled and use data from the trial to redesign future studies. However, it does not expect to get Prochymal approved for Crohn's disease through this trial.
Leerink Swann analyst William Tanner, who had expected the trial to end without difficulties, said he expects the Crohn's disease trial to get pushed by a couple of years. Tanner does not expect the enrollment halt and design flaws to impact other indications in which the drug is being tested.
Osiris, which developed Prochymal from adult stem cells, is studying the drug in several other indications like graft versus host disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), myocardial infarction and diabetes.
However, Lazard Capital Markets analyst Joel Sendek is very sceptical of the drug in any indication. "I don't think the drug works very well, and I have not seen any evidence that the drug works in Crohn's disease," said Sendek, who has a "sell" rating on the company.
"The company has moved too fast in the late-stage studies. They had very few early- and mid-stage data," Sendek said.
Osiris halted enrollment after the final interim analysis showed that one of the two Prochymal dose arms was unlikely to achieve the main goal of the study due to high response rate seen in the arm that was on dummy drug.
"After careful discussion with the FDA, we elected to discontinue enrollment rather than attempt to re-power the trial," Chief Executive Randal Mills said in a statement. Osiris has a commercial collaboration with Genzyme Corp on Prochymal. However, according to the terms, Osiris would have to bear the full costs of a new late-stage Crohn's disease study.
Shares of Osiris were down about 23 percent at $14.05 in morning trade Friday on Nasdaq. They had touched a low of $12.62 earlier. (Editing by Anil D'Silva, Ratul Ray Chaudhuri)
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Stress, Life Work and Crohn's
So my Crohn's has actually been doing a bit better lately, but I still deal with stress related flare ups. Stressing over finances, work and life in general aren't good for Crohn's Disease. Combine the fact that I have been away from my wife 5 days a week since we got married and it makes for some rough days. Lately the pain has been pretty intense, but a lot of things feel like they are turning the corner. Work looks like it will take off soon and Sarah will be here full time. 
WOOOHOOO!!!
Here is to Beach Life! 
Friday, February 27, 2009
New Genetic Targets for Drugs to Treat Crohn's Disease
THURSDAY, Feb. 26 (HealthDay News) -- An international team of researchers has pinpointed new genetic targets for drugs to treat Crohn's disease, a chronic and painful condition caused by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia-led group used a new gene-searching method, combining a statistical tool that identifies genes interacting on the same biological pathways with highly automated gene-hunting techniques that scan the whole genome.
An initial analysis was performed on DNA from 1,758 Crohn's patients and 1,480 people without the disease. All of them were of European ancestry. The analysis was repeated in three more groups, of both European and African ancestry.
"Among hundreds of known biological pathways, the one that surfaced from the analysis as being most significant included genes already known to be relevant to the biology of Crohn's disease," study leader Dr. Hakon Hakonarson, director of the Center for Applied Genomics at Children's Hospital, said in a news release from the hospital.
The interleukin 12 (IL12) pathway governs cell receptors involved in the developed of Crohn's disease. Previous research has found that monoclonal antibodies that block the IL12 receptor show some clinical success in treating Crohn's disease.
The study was published online and in the March 13 print issue of The American Journal of Human Genetics.
"As we better understand the gene pathways operating in Crohn's disease, we are uncovering more potential targets for effective drug treatments," study co-author Dr. Robert Baldassano, a pediatric gastroenterologist and director of the Center for Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease at Children's Hospital, said in the same news release.
Developing targeted therapies based on gene pathways might enable doctors to tailor treatments to a patient's genetic profile, he added.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Crohn's Condition Update
So after spending a month or two uninsured, I have health insurance back. My Crohn's disease is in a mild flare up and it is currently goinggn untreated and unmedicated. I hope everyone out there is doing well. Drop me a line sometime and let me know how you guys are doing. I will be getting back into updating my Crohn's Disease Blog over the next couple of weeks. Thanks for all of your support!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Crohn's Disease and Cycling - More Crohn's and Sports info
Crohn's disease and cycling
From Cycling News.com Article
I'm a 28-year-old recreational rider who likes to ride four to five times a week, I start by building up easily and when I'm in shape, my longest rides are about 160 km (ore about 100 miles). I also like climbing the French mountains, but also at a recreational pace. As you notice, I'm not exactly a pro, but I always like to get in better shape.
I've been recently diagnosed with Crohn's disease, which is also a cause of anaemia (lowest hematocrit ever measured was 27, most of the time it's about 35). This of course doesn't help my riding. The doctors at the hospital were very helpful and gave me all the medicines I need to control my disease, but they couldn't give me much info about Crohn's and sports.
There are two big issues:
My body refuses to absorb iron. I take iron supplements (each day I take 3 times the dose a normal person should take and extra vitamin C, because it helps the iron absorption (both on doctors prescription), but my hematocrit and haemoglobin levels stay low
Because of the disease, my body doesn't absorb much proteins either. I take protein supplements after hard trainings, but would it help if I would drink protein drinks on a more regular (daily) basis?
S
o, apart from more training, what could help me to get in a better shape? Proteins? More iron supplements? Any other training tips for Crohn's patients?
Bram
Pam Hinton replies:
As you are well aware, Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Although the inflammation and scarring can affect any region of the gastrointestinal tract, typically the ileum (part of the small intestine) and colon are affected. The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease damages the mucosa, where nutrient absorption occurs. As a result, the ability of the intestine to do its job is severely compromised.
Weight loss is common due to reduced intake because of abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhoea. In addition, the ability of the intestine to absorb the energy-yielding macronutrients, in particular, protein and fat, may be reduced. Special liquid diet formulations are available that provide partially digested proteins, as amino acids (elemental diet) or small peptides (polymeric diet). These require a physician's prescription, but you can also buy liquid supplements with partially hydrolysed proteins that may increase the amount of protein you absorb. Consumption of small amounts of protein at higher frequency may also increase the amount absorbed.
Iron deficiency is common in individuals with Crohn's disease due to poor intake and blood losses via the gastrointestinal tract. Deficiency of vitamin B12 is also common, as it is absorbed in the ileum. Anaemia can result from deficiency of iron and/or vitamin B12. Both B12 and iron can be administered via injection if needed. Individuals with Crohn's are at risk for osteoporosis (loss of bone) because of both the disease and the corticosteroids that are used to treat the disease. Therefore, most individuals take supplemental calcium and vitamin D.
If you haven't already done so, you might talk to a dietitian who specialises in inflammatory bowel disease. Good luck!
From Cycling News.com Article
I'm a 28-year-old recreational rider who likes to ride four to five times a week, I start by building up easily and when I'm in shape, my longest rides are about 160 km (ore about 100 miles). I also like climbing the French mountains, but also at a recreational pace. As you notice, I'm not exactly a pro, but I always like to get in better shape.
I've been recently diagnosed with Crohn's disease, which is also a cause of anaemia (lowest hematocrit ever measured was 27, most of the time it's about 35). This of course doesn't help my riding. The doctors at the hospital were very helpful and gave me all the medicines I need to control my disease, but they couldn't give me much info about Crohn's and sports.
There are two big issues:
My body refuses to absorb iron. I take iron supplements (each day I take 3 times the dose a normal person should take and extra vitamin C, because it helps the iron absorption (both on doctors prescription), but my hematocrit and haemoglobin levels stay low
Because of the disease, my body doesn't absorb much proteins either. I take protein supplements after hard trainings, but would it help if I would drink protein drinks on a more regular (daily) basis?
S
o, apart from more training, what could help me to get in a better shape? Proteins? More iron supplements? Any other training tips for Crohn's patients?
Bram
Pam Hinton replies:
As you are well aware, Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. Although the inflammation and scarring can affect any region of the gastrointestinal tract, typically the ileum (part of the small intestine) and colon are affected. The inflammation caused by Crohn's disease damages the mucosa, where nutrient absorption occurs. As a result, the ability of the intestine to do its job is severely compromised.
Weight loss is common due to reduced intake because of abdominal pain, cramping, and diarrhoea. In addition, the ability of the intestine to absorb the energy-yielding macronutrients, in particular, protein and fat, may be reduced. Special liquid diet formulations are available that provide partially digested proteins, as amino acids (elemental diet) or small peptides (polymeric diet). These require a physician's prescription, but you can also buy liquid supplements with partially hydrolysed proteins that may increase the amount of protein you absorb. Consumption of small amounts of protein at higher frequency may also increase the amount absorbed.
Iron deficiency is common in individuals with Crohn's disease due to poor intake and blood losses via the gastrointestinal tract. Deficiency of vitamin B12 is also common, as it is absorbed in the ileum. Anaemia can result from deficiency of iron and/or vitamin B12. Both B12 and iron can be administered via injection if needed. Individuals with Crohn's are at risk for osteoporosis (loss of bone) because of both the disease and the corticosteroids that are used to treat the disease. Therefore, most individuals take supplemental calcium and vitamin D.
If you haven't already done so, you might talk to a dietitian who specialises in inflammatory bowel disease. Good luck!
Monday, February 9, 2009
Crohn's Disease Patient Claims Marijuana was to Treat Crohn's
Ok, so I want to use this as a serious article, but it's impossible. This buffoon gets caught growing 54 plants (Obiously not for personal use), has methamphetamines in his system and cocaine in his pocket. So much for using this to stimulate discussion regarding medical marijuana and Crohn's Disease!! Article Below:
Police who raided the home of chronically sick Christopher Hazelwood found 54 cannabis plants which he claimed he was growing to use as pain relief for his condition.
Mendip magistrates were told that tattoo artist Hazelwood had suffered Crohn's disease for many years and had to be fed through a tube in his stomach because he could not take food through his mouth. The court heard that 48-year-old Hazelwood also had brittle bones and the disease osteoporosis had already set in.
His solicitor, Gwen Browne, told the court at Frome that Hazelwood used the drugs both as pain relief and an appetite stimulant and that the small amount of amphetamines that were found were to give him a decent standard of life.
Hazelwood, of Sunny- mead, Oakhill, pleaded guilty to producing a quantity of cannabis on December 16, possession of cannabis and possession of cocaine.
Magistrates adjourned the case until Wednesday, February 25, and asked for a pre-sentence report. They told Hazelwood they were looking at all sentencing options and had not ruled out sending the case to crown court for sentencing.
Jill Macnamara, prosecuting, said that when police raided the house they found six plants in the shed and more plants in a bedroom, while in the kitchen they found some small bags containing the amphetamines and cannabis. She said that cannabis plants were of various sizes with seven of the smallest plants and 10 large plants.
Miss Macnamara said that the plants were growing in soil and officers found a timer, thermostat, a boxed fan and lights, which were a set up for growing the drug. "The defendant fully admitted that he was growing the plants and explained that while it was for a significant medical condition he was not putting forward his medical reason as an excuse."
Miss Browne said it was an unsophisticated growing system.
"At their biggest they were 44cms tall and 25 of them were 34cms tall. The plants would last him three weeks." "These plants were for medical uses. He has extremely distressing long-term health problems. The cannabis is both for pain relief and an appetite stimulant."
She said that Hazelwood had 3.58g of amphetamines in his possession and that his condition was so drastic that it prevented him from going out most of the time.
Police who raided the home of chronically sick Christopher Hazelwood found 54 cannabis plants which he claimed he was growing to use as pain relief for his condition.
Mendip magistrates were told that tattoo artist Hazelwood had suffered Crohn's disease for many years and had to be fed through a tube in his stomach because he could not take food through his mouth. The court heard that 48-year-old Hazelwood also had brittle bones and the disease osteoporosis had already set in.
His solicitor, Gwen Browne, told the court at Frome that Hazelwood used the drugs both as pain relief and an appetite stimulant and that the small amount of amphetamines that were found were to give him a decent standard of life.
Hazelwood, of Sunny- mead, Oakhill, pleaded guilty to producing a quantity of cannabis on December 16, possession of cannabis and possession of cocaine.
Magistrates adjourned the case until Wednesday, February 25, and asked for a pre-sentence report. They told Hazelwood they were looking at all sentencing options and had not ruled out sending the case to crown court for sentencing.
Jill Macnamara, prosecuting, said that when police raided the house they found six plants in the shed and more plants in a bedroom, while in the kitchen they found some small bags containing the amphetamines and cannabis. She said that cannabis plants were of various sizes with seven of the smallest plants and 10 large plants.
Miss Macnamara said that the plants were growing in soil and officers found a timer, thermostat, a boxed fan and lights, which were a set up for growing the drug. "The defendant fully admitted that he was growing the plants and explained that while it was for a significant medical condition he was not putting forward his medical reason as an excuse."
Miss Browne said it was an unsophisticated growing system.
"At their biggest they were 44cms tall and 25 of them were 34cms tall. The plants would last him three weeks." "These plants were for medical uses. He has extremely distressing long-term health problems. The cannabis is both for pain relief and an appetite stimulant."
She said that Hazelwood had 3.58g of amphetamines in his possession and that his condition was so drastic that it prevented him from going out most of the time.
Sunday, January 25, 2009
My Quick Crohn's Disease Update
Haven't really talked about my Crohn's in a while. My life has been nuts lately. I've been under a ton of financial stress, and dealing with my past relationships...well one of them anyways. An utter nightmare that I am so glad to have behind me. No idea how I made it through the past 9 months without a major Crohn's flareup.
Now I am dealing with getting a new company off the ground, all while trying to keep my house and pay my unworldy, huge child support payments. Fortunately I have found someone that gives me so much support, I wonder how I even deserve it.
Anyways, I am pretty much not on any medication right now. Supposed to be on Entocort, but I never really got its started. I've been leading a healthier lifestyle, and the overall hapiness negates the "small stuff" stress. I still deal with cramping and all the other fun stuff, but it seems more manageable. Maybe the Prochymal did help?!
I've gotten alot of very inspirational emails and comments from my fellow chronies. You guys amaze me....your Crohn's Disease makes mine look like a hangnail, but you remain positive. Keep your head up guys. God has a plan for us all. Keep fighting, and continue to inspire those around you.
Now I am dealing with getting a new company off the ground, all while trying to keep my house and pay my unworldy, huge child support payments. Fortunately I have found someone that gives me so much support, I wonder how I even deserve it.
Anyways, I am pretty much not on any medication right now. Supposed to be on Entocort, but I never really got its started. I've been leading a healthier lifestyle, and the overall hapiness negates the "small stuff" stress. I still deal with cramping and all the other fun stuff, but it seems more manageable. Maybe the Prochymal did help?!
I've gotten alot of very inspirational emails and comments from my fellow chronies. You guys amaze me....your Crohn's Disease makes mine look like a hangnail, but you remain positive. Keep your head up guys. God has a plan for us all. Keep fighting, and continue to inspire those around you.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Why is he talking about Merchant Processing on a Crohn's Blog?
Ok, so in 3 years I have never really pushed one product or service on this site. But my friend started this company and it is really cool. I thought of my Chronies because you can pretty much set your own hours and work from home. This is NOT a home based business scam where you have to pay to sign up...not multi-level....just an awesome commission based job with no quotas, etc.
In the simplest terms, FlashBanc is a national merchant processing provider - They provide businesses with the ability to accept credit cards (or pay less fees on transactions in their store or website). They are hiring Account Executives as independent contractors. Essentially you would be going into businesses (small and large) and offering them merchant processing solutions.
A lot of people start with companies they personally frequent.
Basically they are saying "Oh hey, Mrs. Smith (that owns the salon or gym or whatever), do you know what rates you are paying your merchant processor?"
Mrs. Smith says "no, or x.x%"
Rep: "Well my company does that....can i get a copy of your statement and see if I can save you some money"
Mrs Smith: Yeah, sure I guess
Rep: Ok, well if I can save you a decent amount of money can I earn your business?
Mrs Smith: says yes...you send the statement, they analyze and beat the rates and you go back to Mrs. Smtih a hero.
You get their statement and then Flashbanc reviews it and offers a better package, saving the businesses a good deal of money. You bring the proposal back and are the hero. The biz doesn't pay and the switch is painless and done by Flashbanc. Then comes the best part...you earn a % of every singe credit card transaction your client's make.
It really is a great opportunity. Most companies are getting raped by their merchant processor and don't really understand the charges....so you are helping them get a better, fair deal. Email me at wwwchachi@gmail.com if you want to know more.
In the simplest terms, FlashBanc is a national merchant processing provider - They provide businesses with the ability to accept credit cards (or pay less fees on transactions in their store or website). They are hiring Account Executives as independent contractors. Essentially you would be going into businesses (small and large) and offering them merchant processing solutions.
A lot of people start with companies they personally frequent.
Basically they are saying "Oh hey, Mrs. Smith (that owns the salon or gym or whatever), do you know what rates you are paying your merchant processor?"
Mrs. Smith says "no, or x.x%"
Rep: "Well my company does that....can i get a copy of your statement and see if I can save you some money"
Mrs Smith: Yeah, sure I guess
Rep: Ok, well if I can save you a decent amount of money can I earn your business?
Mrs Smith: says yes...you send the statement, they analyze and beat the rates and you go back to Mrs. Smtih a hero.
You get their statement and then Flashbanc reviews it and offers a better package, saving the businesses a good deal of money. You bring the proposal back and are the hero. The biz doesn't pay and the switch is painless and done by Flashbanc. Then comes the best part...you earn a % of every singe credit card transaction your client's make.
It really is a great opportunity. Most companies are getting raped by their merchant processor and don't really understand the charges....so you are helping them get a better, fair deal. Email me at wwwchachi@gmail.com if you want to know more.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Actor John J. York's Recoreds Crohn's and Colitis PSA's
Actor John J. York's Public Service Announcements Highlight Community-Based Fundraising through Crohn's & Colitis Foundation Take Steps Walks
Television and screen celebrity John J. York, best known for his role as Mac Scorpio on ABC's daytime soap opera General Hospital, recently donated his time to create a radio public service announcement (PSA) series on behalf of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.
The 60, 30, and 15 second PSAs will encourage Americans to register for one of over 80 Take Steps Walks in communities around the country in spring and summer 2009. Walkers will raise much-needed awareness of and dollars for research into Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, chronic, painful, and often debilitating digestive diseases collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that afflict millions of Americans.
York understands the ups-and-downs of living with a chronic digestive disease. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 15, York has quietly coped with a mild case of IBD for decades. Playing General Hospital's police chief since 1991, and most recently joining the daytime soap opera's spin-off, Nightline, York has been able to live out his dream of being a soap opera star. But he's unlike most patients who go day-to-day not knowing when they will wind up in the hospital or miss days or weeks of work at a time.
After learning that his daughter could have inherited a gene that would put her at risk for inheriting ulcerative colitis, York decided to use his recognition to make a difference in patients' lives. "It was impossible for me to sit back and think that my child and thousands of other children could become the victims of this disease," says York. "I hope that my work not only advances the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's mission to find a cure, but helps the estimated 1.4 million Americans impacted win back their lives."
The number of people with newly diagnosed IBD has exploded in recent years and there is no known cure. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation has defined the field of IBD research for nearly a half-century, enabling the best scientists to discover better therapies and ultimately, a cure.
"The opportunity to take research to the next level has never been greater than right now," says Richard J. Geswell, President of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. "The funds raised by the thousands of people around the country who sign-up to participate in a Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis Walk in 2009 will help us achieve this vision."
Last year, over 30,000 Americans participated in Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis, raising a total of $6 million for the Foundation to invest in research, education, and support. Visit www.cctakesteps.org today to find a Take Steps Walk in your community.
About Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are painful, medically incurable illnesses that attack the digestive system. Crohn's disease may attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, while ulcerative colitis inflames only the large intestine (colon). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery. These illnesses can cause severe complications, including colon cancer in patients with long-term disease. Some 1.4 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, with as many as 150,000 under the age of 18. Most people develop the diseases between the ages of 15 and 35.
Television and screen celebrity John J. York, best known for his role as Mac Scorpio on ABC's daytime soap opera General Hospital, recently donated his time to create a radio public service announcement (PSA) series on behalf of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation.
The 60, 30, and 15 second PSAs will encourage Americans to register for one of over 80 Take Steps Walks in communities around the country in spring and summer 2009. Walkers will raise much-needed awareness of and dollars for research into Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, chronic, painful, and often debilitating digestive diseases collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) that afflict millions of Americans.
York understands the ups-and-downs of living with a chronic digestive disease. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at age 15, York has quietly coped with a mild case of IBD for decades. Playing General Hospital's police chief since 1991, and most recently joining the daytime soap opera's spin-off, Nightline, York has been able to live out his dream of being a soap opera star. But he's unlike most patients who go day-to-day not knowing when they will wind up in the hospital or miss days or weeks of work at a time.
After learning that his daughter could have inherited a gene that would put her at risk for inheriting ulcerative colitis, York decided to use his recognition to make a difference in patients' lives. "It was impossible for me to sit back and think that my child and thousands of other children could become the victims of this disease," says York. "I hope that my work not only advances the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation's mission to find a cure, but helps the estimated 1.4 million Americans impacted win back their lives."
The number of people with newly diagnosed IBD has exploded in recent years and there is no known cure. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation has defined the field of IBD research for nearly a half-century, enabling the best scientists to discover better therapies and ultimately, a cure.
"The opportunity to take research to the next level has never been greater than right now," says Richard J. Geswell, President of the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation. "The funds raised by the thousands of people around the country who sign-up to participate in a Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis Walk in 2009 will help us achieve this vision."
Last year, over 30,000 Americans participated in Take Steps for Crohn's & Colitis, raising a total of $6 million for the Foundation to invest in research, education, and support. Visit www.cctakesteps.org today to find a Take Steps Walk in your community.
About Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis
Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are painful, medically incurable illnesses that attack the digestive system. Crohn's disease may attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, while ulcerative colitis inflames only the large intestine (colon). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery. These illnesses can cause severe complications, including colon cancer in patients with long-term disease. Some 1.4 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, with as many as 150,000 under the age of 18. Most people develop the diseases between the ages of 15 and 35.
Osiris Prochymal Wins Even More FDA Approval
Thursday, Columbia-based stem cell therapeutic company, Osiris Therapeutics Inc. , said that it has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, to broaden its expanded access program for Prochymal, thereby making the investigational stem cell product available to adults with life-threatening Graft vs. Host Disease or GvHD.Prochymal is currently in its Phase III clinical trials for GvHD and Crohn's disease. Expanded access to Prochymal was initially restricted to only pediatric patients suffering from steroid refractory GvHD until patient enrollment in the Phase III pivotal trial was completed.
Osiris noted that under the expanded access program, patients from two months to 70 years of age, inclusive, who have been diagnosed with GvHD that is unresponsive to steroid therapy, are eligible to receive Prochymal. Additionally, for expanded access, the FDA must determine that the available scientific evidence, taken as a whole, demonstrates that the drug may be effective and would not expose the patients to unreasonable risks.
Osiris noted that under the expanded access program, patients from two months to 70 years of age, inclusive, who have been diagnosed with GvHD that is unresponsive to steroid therapy, are eligible to receive Prochymal. Additionally, for expanded access, the FDA must determine that the available scientific evidence, taken as a whole, demonstrates that the drug may be effective and would not expose the patients to unreasonable risks.
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