The 10th Gutsy Walk in Nanaimo was a raging success, raising nearly $30,000 on a goal of $18,000. (submitted/Alliyah Lawrence)

By Spencer Sterritt

big strides

Nanaimo branch of Crohn’s & Colitis Canada wins top national award

Nov 9, 2019 | 9:36 AM

NANAIMO — A successful fundraising walk along Nanaimo’s seawall has earned national recognition for those raising awareness about a serious intestinal disease.

The Nanaimo chapter of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada was awarded the Gutsiest Walk in Canada from the national organization. A Gutsy Walk is their yearly awareness and fundraising event held in Maffeo Sutton Park to bring attention to the disease which inflames the lining of your gastrointestinal system and prevents you from absorbing nutrients.

Local chapter president Alliya Lawrence said it was an honour to be recognized for the top award from Crohn’s and Colitis Canada.

Their 10th Gutsy Walk in 2019 was a “remarkable” success, surpassing the $18,000 fundraising goal for a total just over $29,000.

Lawrence said the money going to Crohn’s and Colitis research is more important than ever.

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“When I started with Crohn’s and Colitis eight years ago, one in 160 Canadians were affected by the disease. It’s now one in 140 and by 2030 it’s estimated one in 100 Canadians will live with it.”

Since forming 10 years ago, Lawrence said more and more people are coming to their meetings and they’re constantly making new contacts.

Each year up to 250 people take park in the local Gutsy Walk.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @spencer_sterrit