Congratulations Are In Order!

On October 2nd I featured this awesome interview with my friend Jodi McKee (click here to read her spotlight from 2010). In this interview, Jodi eloquently discussed the experience of being pregnant and chronically ill - an important perspective for all of us who might start a family someday.

On December 9, 2011 Jodi gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl. Both mom and baby are doing just fine. I wanted to send a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to Jodi and her husband Chris on the birth of their beautiful baby. She is perfect.

Welcome to the world, Olivia Blythe McKee. I can't wait to meet you...

In October I also wrote about "IBD Icons", a national contest aimed at celebrating the achievements of those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Renowned American Idol Contestant Casey Abrams partnered up with the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) to bring us this unique awareness campaign. For every vote cast, Janssen Biotech, Inc. generously donated $1 to the CCFA for research and education. 


I had the unique opportunity of interviewing Katie Jeter-Boldt, a finalist from Kansas City, Missouri. The winners of IBD Icons have been announced and I'm excited to report that Katie was one of two winners!! The 2011 IBD Icons are Doug Yakich and Katie Jeter-Boldt! On December 4, 2011 Casey Abrams recognized the winners onstage at a concert to kick off the Zappos.com Rock 'n' Roll Las Vegas Marathon and ½ Marathon to benefit CCFA.

Congratulations Katie!! 

Keep up the incredible work; you're living proof that anything is possible not despite, but perhaps BECAUSE of chronic illness...

Love,

Maya