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Span Communication support the Gutsy Group
Span Communication supports the Gutsy Group
Span Communication is providing pro bono public relations services to the Gutsy Group, a foundation dedicated to raising money for research into Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.
The diseases afflict more than 70,000 Australians, and are estimated to have cost Australia $267million last year in medical costs and lost wages.
Collectively known as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are the second most common form of chronic inflammatory disease in Australia after rheumatoid arthritis.
Globally, Australia has the second highest per capita incidence of IBD in the world, second only to Canada.
Those most affected by IBD are young people, who often develop Crohn’s or Colitis in late adolescence and early adulthood. At this time the sometimes embarrassing symptoms make it difficult to talk about their illness, as body image, personal identity, sexuality and relationships are major concerns.
“We decided to offer our services to the Gutsy Group because these diseases aren’t very glamorous and because the symptoms are unpleasant it isn’t easy to raise public awareness and fund research,” said Span Communication Principal Jo Curkpatrick.
We have learnt that the symptoms include severe chronic diarrhoea, ulcers and rectal bleeding, and a large number of sufferers end up having their colon surgically removed in order to gain some freedom from the disease.
Our first task has been to promote a walk at the Point Nepean National Park to raise funds for research. The walk raised over $15,000 despite the wind and rain keeping people away.
Over the coming months we’ll be working with the Gutsy Group to plan activities aimed at raising the profile of the diseases, the organisation and encouraging sponsorships and donations.
More information at www.thegutsygroup.com.au
