This post is sponsored by Project Baseline by Verily, but opinions are my own.
One of the most pivotal moments in my journey with Ulcerative Colitis was something my (beloved) gastroenterologist said to me. I had been struggling with Ulcerative Colitis for more than 5 years and hadn’t achieved anything close to remission.
I was in a bad place both mentally and physically, so I was losing hope that I would ever live a normal, healthy life again. His words couldn’t have come at a better time in my journey with ulcerative colitis, and they still resonate with me today.
My doctor told me he first joined Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in 1996. As a young physician in the Gastroenterology department, the only medications available to patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) were steroids and narcotics. They didn’t have the choice of medications that we do today, and he said, “I’m a dreamer and hopeful guy. I don’t know if you’ll be on these drugs for the rest of your life.” I believed him then, and I still do today.
My doctor actually ended up leaving MGH to pursue research at the company whose drug put me into remission. I’m disappointed that he’s no longer my doctor, but I’m thrilled he’s helping to further IBD research and create better and safer treatment options. Even though “Big Pharma” gets a bad rap, I believe there are lots of good people – like my old doctor – who honestly want to help others. With this type of research, treatment options will continue to grow every year and help more and more patients.
I feel a little silly admitting this, but as I recapped this story, my eyes welled up because I’m truly so hopeful for the future. Even from when I was first diagnosed in 2011, in a span of just 9 years, there are so many more treatment options available for IBD patients, and they’re much safer and come with fewer side effects.
No one should have to suffer with IBD (or any chronic disease), and I’m confident researchers can continue to find solutions (and maybe even a cure!) for IBD, but they need our help. Yes, our help!
Right now, more than ever, it’s important to support research of all kinds so each and every one of us can remain healthy. With more of us at home right now, it’s a great time to help with this research project. Please read on for details.
Project Baseline by Verily is an initiative to make it easy and engaging to participate in clinical research. They are conducting the Project Baseline Gut Research Project and asking those with IBD to contribute to a better understanding of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis by sharing your health history and, bonus, compensation is provided.
The process is simple to get started:
- Participate in a survey about your health history
- If prompted, add your EHR (electronic health records) to provide a more holistic view of your health history
- The study is 100% online and easy to use – just follow the prompts. Easy!
What you receive for taking part:
- Up to $100 in compensation
- Exclusive access to the Verily gut health community and study participation opportunities
- First access to relevant studies
- Get future access to Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis opportunities
You might not think participating in a study would make a significant difference, but I truly believe that together we can make BIG change in IBD research. No matter where you are in your journey, your story can be a part of a solution because knowledge is the foundation of the future and finally finding relief from symptoms.
So, listen to your gut, and participate in the Baseline Gut Research Project. It’s the right thing to do-for you, family, friends, and for the generations to come.
