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Braving the catwalk for IBD awareness!

Braving the catwalk for IBD awareness!

California State University San Marcos hosted an awesome awareness event called ‘Love Your Body’ and asked those brave enough to get involved.

One such brave IBD’er to step forward was #GetYourBellyOuwebsite-story-alishat campaign supporter Alisha Donaldson.  Alisha joined The Gender Equity Centre in the middle of the campus courtyard for a fashion catwalk like no other. When asked of the event Alisha said ‘The event was to encourage body positivity while raising awareness of health issues and harmful/ offensive advertisements. There was a runway for anyone to strut their lovely selves down, whilst the MC explained what each person loved most about their body.’
She continued ‘I decided that this would be the perfect opportunity to step far outside of my comfort zone, strip down and walk the runway in order to showcase/ highlight that confidence is key when tackling life with an ostomy.’

Before the event Alisha reached out to our community of ‘bellies’ and got them involved by asking them to submit words related to Inflammatory Bowel Disease.  She would later write these words upon her body to raise awareness of the troubles that those with a chronic illness face. She was keen to highlight and represent ‘invisible illnesses’ which unfortunately many endure and often deal with alone.

When asked how the e11225365_10202551881193655_3532877145530812078_nvent had gone Alisha said ‘I was extremely uncomfortable but knew that that day and that moment was bigger than me. I was speaking on behalf of so many who couldn’t speak for themselves.  I was so happy to able to share that accomplishment with so many. It’s heartwarming to know that I’ve inspired others and am helping to make a difference, not only by overcoming my own struggles but for others out there like me.’

It’s amazing to see that the #GetYourBellyOut campaign is still encouraging people throughout the globe to raise awareness of Inflammatory Bowel Disease.  If you have been inspired by the #GetYourBellyOut campaign please get in touch, for your chance to be our next feature.

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