| March 2005
Dear Friends: Many of you are aware that this past year has been a difficult one for my son Jonathan as he has suffered enormously with his ulcerative colitis. Starting in August, throughout the fall and into winter, Jon was in a lot of pain with a severe flare up of this chronic disease. His doctor wanted to hospitalize him. Jon eventually took a high dosage of prednisone, which has severe side effects that lasted a long time. He became better after many long months but sadly, his remission was short lived and recently, the disease has become painful and disruptive again. We are all devastated. I think I have cried every day during this long ordeal, while still trying to channel my energy into positive efforts toward seeking a cure. A year ago, so many of you showed kindness to Jeff, Jon and me by supporting my 3 day, 210 mile "Get Your Guts in Gear" charity bicycle ride. This June, I am once again embarking on this big event, which will raise awareness about ulcerative colitis and Crohn`s disease and provide funds to research a cure. Every dollar brings hope to me and my family and the one million Americans alone who suffer from ulcerative colitis and Crohn`s disease. Many are children who face a lifetime of illness. I will ride the 210 miles from NYC to Saratoga on June 10, 11 and 12. With so much support from friends like you, last year I raised almost $5,000. Words cannot express the warmth and good feelings you brought to me as I pedaled along (I was extra proud that I proved to be one of the fastest riders!). It is still hard to ask but again, I am grateful for any amount of money that you can send to me. You can write a check to: "Get your Guts in Gear," or make a credit card donation at www.ccfa.org . Please check this website for more information about "Get your Guts in Gear" and to learn more about these diseases. On behalf of Jonathan and so many like him, I thank you. Sincerely, Barbara Levine 11 Tracey Court Troy, NY 12180 PS Please pass this on to anyone who may be interested. As of last night, Jon was in the hospital with kidney stones, a direct reslut of the prednisone. Jeff and I are going to Arizona tomorrow to be with him. |
| An Open Letter from Barbara Kimelman (Levine) |
 |
 |
|