The View - Amy Brenneman, Colitis

Amy Brenneman has stepped up as the spokeswoman for the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America after suffering from inflammatory bowel disease for years.

The Private Practice star underwent surgery in 2010 to have her colon removed and she has been in good health ever since.

Brenneman was recently approached by organisers behind the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation to help raise awareness about the disease and she agreed to film a public service announcement to encourage others not to suffer in silence.

During an appearance on U.S. talk show The View on Monday (01Oct12), she said, "A lot of people suffer from it, it is not a glamorous disease. They (Foundation officials) wanted it to get some traction because there is something really private and embarrassing and strange about (inflammatory bowel disease)".

IBD sufferers are prone to ulcers and sores on their large intestine or colon.

Letter from Rick Geswell, CCFA President

We have a number of exciting projects in the works at CCFA this fall, including a new teleconference next month exploring the latest breakthroughs in research. We're also working to raise awareness by making sure our legislators are helping us find cures. You can help by asking your legislator to join others in support of issues important to our patients and loved ones. In addition, we've created a new way to fundraise through personalized fundraising pages.

Finally, we're excited to announce the launch of Campus Connection, a website designed for students with IBD. This site will connect students with IBD and create a community of shared experiences to reinforce that you are not alone!

My CCFA Fundraising Page

Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. is a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible within the guidelines of U.S. law. To claim a donation as a deduction on your U.S. taxes, please keep your email donation receipt as your official record. We'll send it to you upon successful completion of your donation.