Senior Caitlin Rowley never imagined her chronic disease could have such a positive impact on her life. Today, she is helping not only herself, but other ill patients and her community as well.

When Caitlin was 14 years old, she was diagnosed with Crohn’s and Colitis. She spent many months out of school and in the hospital with various complications and surgeries.

“It was super hard on not only me, but my family as well,” Caitlin said. “Having to see your child suffer is almost as bad as being the one who is in pain.”

But Caitlin wasted no time feeling sorry for herself. As soon as she regained her health and got the disease under control, she reached out to the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. Through CCFA, she became a team member of the annual Take Steps for Crohn’s and Colitis Walk.

“We decided to do the walk because it is crucial to raise money and awareness for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, so that someday a cure can be found and the millions of people living with these illnesses will finally be able to live normal, healthy lives,” Caitlin said.

To say her work and involvement has been successful would be an understatement. “Caitlin’s Crew” was on fire.

“I sell t-shirts for the walk a couple months prior, and I also have a spirit night at the Romero’s on Longenbaugh to raise awareness and funds for the event,” Caitlin said.

She even earned a position on the Children’s Advisory Board at Texas Children’s Hospital.

“In my position, I get to work with other frequent patients and give feedback on how to improve the hospital environment,” Caitlin said. “It’s made me realize that I may want to be a doctor someday!”

This year, Caitlin’s walk will be held on May 20th at the Houston Zoo. It is a casual one mile walk around the zoo, and it also includes food and game at the finish line.

“It’s a really great event,” sophomore Chandler Rowley said. “I love being able to support my sister, and I’m proud to be involved in it.”

Last year, a total of 900 people came out to the zoo to walk with her. Caitlin collected over $22,000 worth of donations for CCFA.

“They are a fantastic organization because 80% of the funds raised go to mission critical work, like research and patient programs,” Caitlin said.

She hopes to exceed her goal of $10,000 in donations.

“I would love for the whole student body to come out and support me- even if they don’t know me personally!” Caitlin said. “It’s for a great cause and it would mean the world to me.”