Message from Devon McTavish
06/17/2009 12:49 PM by Cris Cruz
(The following post was written by United's Devon McTavish)
So I have a favor to ask, kind of a big one.
Some of you may or may not know that I have Crohn’s disease. It’s a digestive disease that---well, imagine the worst stomachache ever, then imagine having that all the time. It sucks. Now I’ve been fortunate and have been able to control it through medication. Unfortunately, these medications don’t work for everyone. One of those people is my father.
Pops, got diagnosed with Crohn’s about two months ago. He’s been in and out of the hospital and doesn’t seem to be responding to any of the treatments or medications the doctors are providing him. It’s been frustrating for my family and I know there are a thousand other families out there going through the same thing.
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is holding a sweet event on Saturday, June 20 to raise money and awareness for these terrible diseases. The event runs from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Sylvan Theater (15th & Independence SW; Smithsonian metro stop-National Mall exit). It looks to be pretty happening, with live music from The Vicious Martinis, food, carnival games and face paintings for the kids (or kids at heart), and a one mile walk around the Tidal Basin.
As some of you may have figured out, we have a game in Colorado that same day so I won’t be able to make it. This is where I need your help! I need you to walk for me. There is a D.C. United team that has been created, led by my momma (Mrs. McTavish to you!) and my sister (Heather), so as Honorary Chair for the Walk I’d love it if you could help me out and join the D.C. United team by donating here.
If you’re unable to donate, which I totally understand (I was a developmental player) please think about just attending the event to learn more about this disease and how you can help. If you do happen to change your mind about donating, you’ll still be able to do so until August 31. Thanks for all the help and support you provide for myself and D.C. United!!! And be sure to catch our game tonight on ESPN2 at 10:30!!
Thanks again,
Comments
4 Comments
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06/17/2009 3:39 PM by JB252
I have a good friend with Crohn's.. she's constantly in and out of the hospital. It sucks. I can't make the walk, but i'll gladly make a donation..
06/17/2009 7:03 PM by Maniac
Totally know where you're coming from Devon - I don't have Crohn's, but do suffer from pretty bad UC. Like your dad I'm one of those that had had little success with medication, but thankfully that changed a couple of years ago when I participated in a clinical trial and found some meds that made the difference...
Thankfully it's helped keep it under control, but the occasional flare up kicks my ass (literally ;-)...
Most people really don't get it and how disruptive this dang thing is and how it turns your life upside down - hopefully this raises more awareness...
I'll do my best to attend the event and will also make a donation. I will also post a link on our site shortly to hopefully send some others your way.
My best to you and your dad - and good luck in Seattle tonight!
Martin
06/19/2009 1:57 PM by mrobinson
Devon,
Its Matt, from the Cannons all those years ago. I did not know that you also have Crohn's. CCFA does good work, and it is certainly a worthy cause.
06/21/2009 10:30 AM by Kelly Carnes
Sorry to hear this Devon. Couldn't do the fundraiser this weekend because we were already signed up to do Relay for Life...but if you check out the link you'll see we did a lap in honor of your father. Hopefully we can help out with the next fundraiser so please keep us update and let us know what we can do! Best wishes to you and your family. Pic link: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2085788&l=33d132efcf&id=677696848