Dear United Fans:
As a member of the Black-and-Red, I consider myself a very fortunate person. In fact, I believe I am more fortunate than you would think. As a teenager I was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. My soccer practices were replaced by doctor appointments. My nights out with friends turned into nights on the couch with stomach cramps and frequent bathroom visits. Through family support, wonderful doctors, and the right combination of medication I've been able to live out my dream, something that seemed impossible at the time of diagnosis.
A year ago my father was diagnosed with Crohn's and has been struggling to maintain a normal life ever since. This disease has caused a lot of anxiety, frustration, and pain for my family. Millions of other families are in the same position- nearly 1.4 million American adults and children suffer from digestive diseases. It was a natural fit for me to begin working with the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation, a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to finding the cure for Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
I am thrilled to be working with CCFA as we launch the first Take Steps Be Heard Awareness Walk in my hometown of Winchester, Virginia on June 5, 2010. Money raised by this venture will help fund research to find a cure. While many suffer in silence, the Take Steps Walk brings together the community in a fun and energetic atmosphere, encouraging people to make noise and be heard.
For those of you who can't attend the Walk we'll also be holding a fundraiser at Black Finn in DC on June 3rd. Me and other D.C. United players will be there to mix and mingle with whoever wants to come and take advantage of some good Happy Hour specials. I understand that many people have busy schedules and won't be able to attend either event, but if you would still like to donate to the cause, simply click on the following link:http://online.ccfa.org/site/TR/Walk/Chapter-GreaterWashingtonDCVirginia?px=1614661&pg=personal&fr_id=1756
We've set the bar high- a goal of $15,000 but I know you can help us do it!
On behalf of the McTavish family and all others affected by these illnesses, thank you!
Devon McTavish
D.C. United #18
