Over the past few months, I have had the opportunity to talk to four different organisations.

The first two were in my hometown of Ashburton, a Rotary group and a Lions club. My aim has been to raise awareness of Crohn’s and Colitis NZ, extend the work of the ‘I can’t wait’ campaign, and to share my experiences of living as a teen with Crohn’s disease. 

The third was a combined Rotary group from Rolleston and Lincoln. I have also been featured on the front page of our local newspaper with an article. Through one of the contacts we’ve made, I also recorded an interview for a local radio station The Breeze. Hopefully, this will help raise awareness to a large audience. My school newsletter also ran a piece, accompanied by photos of me at Camp Purple. 

The reception to my visits has been really positive. I find people really receptive to the message that I am spreading and it’s amazing how there is always someone in the crowd who has their own personal connection to my story. They know someone who has Crohn’s or colitis, or perhaps it is someone in their family. Lots have heard of Crohn’s, but have no idea about the impact it has on someone living with it. 

As for the ‘I can’t wait’ campaign, one person I spoke to afterwards thought it was a no brainer! Every company should have one of these stickers! Why would they not? 

I think it may take a little more, to actually get stickers in the companies here. People often say ‘Yes, yes, yes” but carry on with their busy lives and it slips their minds. 

If you would like to know how you can sign up your company to the I Can't Wait Campaign, check out our website: www.crohnsandcolitis.org.nz or email Belinda on info@crohnsandcolitis.org.nz 

Update: The Rolleston Rotary club has reached out and want to help promote the I Can't Wait Campaign locally and they are taking on the task of approaching local businesses on behalf of Charlotte and CCNZ.