My brother Nick was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease a decade ago. It caused him to have to separate from the USMC, and has continued to cause issues, both minor and significant, almost constantly. For along time, Nick was passed from doctor to doctor, and typically was sent home with a pat on the head and a prescription for some temporary medication.

Over the years, Nick has tried a number of ways to control his Crohn's, and while some worked for awhile, nothing has truly worked long term. Nick spent last weekend in a local hospital, only to be discharged yet again with a prescription for pain medication.

In extreme pain less than 24 hours after discharge, Nick traveled to The Cleveland Clinic to visit their ER in hopes he could receive better care at one of the top hospitals in the country. IT WORKED! The doctors recognized the damage the Crohn's has done, and he was admitted. A few days later, he had a much needed resectioning surgery, removing a rather large damaged section of his small intestine.

As you might imagine, this is a major surgery, and it will have a major impact on his life for awhile. Nick is currently the executive chef at Two Bandits Kitchen in Coldwater, MI, where he puts in a ton of hours. At this point, he has been off of work for a week, and his recovery has the potential to keep him out of work for several months. While he does receive some disability pay for the military (thanks, Crohn's, I guess) and he will eventually be able to get some additional assistance, there are still immediate and future needs that won't stop just because Nick had to hit pause.

I'm asking you to help support Nick as he navigates the next few weeks and learns how this major but much needed surgery may impact him moving forward. If you've met Nick, you know he'd give you the shirt off his back. In typical oldest sister fashion, I didn't ask him for permission to do this, I just did it because he'd never ask.

I appreciate any help you can send, and I know Nick does as well. If you'd prefer to avoid the fees, you can contact me and we can make it happen directly.

If you're not familiar with the disease, check out the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation website.