Video Release -- Help Yourself While Helping Other

NEW YORK, July 25, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Known collectively as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis affects 1 in 200 people.  Whether you, or someone you know, are affected by these devastating diseases, participating in a community fundraising event such as the Take Steps Walk is good for your health and happiness.

A video accompanying this release is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=20092

"Take Steps allows patients suffering from IBD to connect with others and reduces the feeling of isolation," said Dr. Frank Sileo, psychologist, award-winning author and IBD patient. "There is a real sense of community and solidarity at each Take Steps walk - especially when patients see the outcry of support through everyone's awareness and fundraising efforts."

Studies show that giving back is good for everyone. It improves happiness levels and can even ward off depression. A key risk factor for depression is social isolation. Participating in community events keeps in contact with others and helps you develop a support system which in turn protects you against stress and depression when you're going through challenging times.

"On a personal level, as a patient, my participation with Take Steps helps me feel part of something bigger than my own disease. I feel like I am taking back some control," says Dr. Sileo. 

Thousands of people will gather this fall at nearly 80 walk sites across the country to join the fight against Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis . The walks are family friendly festivals with activities for everyone including bands, games, activities, food and a leisurely walk through a park or community.  Take Steps has raised over $40 million for research and patient support services and is committed to transforming the lives of those impacted by these diseases and leading them to a brighter future through well-funded, cutting-edge scientific research.

For more information on how to get involved with Take Steps and to find a Fall 2013 walk site nearest you, please visit www.cctakesteps.org or contact Robbie Bellon, Take Steps National Brand Manager at rbellon@ccfa.org or (646) 943-7430.

About the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America

The Crohn's& Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) is the largest voluntary non-profit health organization dedicated to finding cures for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). CCFA's mission is to cure Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults who suffer from these diseases. The Foundation works to fulfill its mission by funding research, providing educational resources for patients and their families, medical professionals, and the public, and furnishing supportive services for those afflicted with IBD. For more information, visit www.ccfa.org , call 888-694-8872, join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ccfafb and www.facebook.com/ccfatakesteps , or follow CCFA and Take Steps on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ccfa and www.twitter.com/takesteps .

Robbie Bellon (646) 943-7430