December 15, 2013

Love VS Crohn's.

I met Lauri, a poetess, and her husband Mark, on the Innerwebs four years ago. Those two are crazy about each other. Always holding hands, always kissing, always smiling and laughing. They're freaking adorable with the love!

You'd never know it by looking at photos, but Mark has Crohn's disease. Every day is a battle for him right now. Lauri loves him so much, and money is tight, so I'm drawing this as a gift for her to give to him this Christmas. She also wants it to be a way to reach others who are living with Crohn's, to empower them and to raise awareness.


Mark has had Crohn's about 10 years. He underwent surgery to have part of his intestines removed about 5 years ago. He's currently on cimzia immune suppression treatment and chemo methotrexate treatment. That's the long story.

And here's the short story:

"We want people to know what it's like," says Lauri. "He is in some level of pain 24-7. But things like working in cars and playing with grandkids give him great joy. And we are huge in believing in God to help us get through. It's one of those invisible illnesses ya know."

Did you know that over half a million people suffer with this in North America? Chances are you know someone with it.

Mark and Lauri are fighting Crohn's with all the love they have for each other. Their smiles, hugs and kisses make everything a little more bearable. It's a positive message.

Ladybugs know all about hugs in a teacup.

Love VS Crohn's? Love wins.

Merry Christmas to you!


9 comments:

  1. Way to go guys! Merry Christmas.

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  2. Merry Christmas, guys. My husband has Crohn's, but we are fortunate that it is very mild at the moment. We find that a gluten-free diet works really well for him. Good luck to you!

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    1. Ah, wow, that's good news. So many people are discovering that gluten-free helps them. Glad it works for you!

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    2. We have been doing some gluten free as well. :)

      Blessing to you and yours Megan

      Lauri

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  3. One of my close colleagues had Crohns, so I know both how long it can persist and to a degree, how uncomfortable it is. I congratulate you on writing about your friends. Nice.

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  4. Thank you JC, from Mark and I both.

    You've been so good to me and helped me in so many ways, obvious and subtle. For that, I am grateful and blessed.

    Not only did you give my husband a gift from me that means so much more than anything money can buy, you also gave me a bonus gift.

    I can mark off an item on my bucket list....

    - Get drawn by JC ✔

    Love you always,
    Lauri

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Cuz You Rocketh.