Gluten-Free Grocery is excited to support our friend, Joanna Bastermijian, as she runs the Chicago Marathon to benefit The University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center.
Confirming her diagnosis of celiac disease in January 2008 was a huge relief. For over a year Joanna was living a very uncomfortable life. She had almost all of the common symptoms of Celiac – severe stomach aches, fatigue, muscle weakness and vitamin D deficiency. She was also living with another auto-immune disease for six years, Hashimoto’s Disease, which is a thyroid disease. Her endocrinologist determined that her symptoms were related to Celiac Disease, since those who have auto-immune diseases are more susceptible to others. In Joanna’s words, “When my doctor put a label to my symptoms, I almost felt rejuvenated. It wasn't easy, but I eventually learned the ins and outs of living a gluten free life. After all the challenges I dealt with, I wanted to prove to myself that I was still in control of my body. I took up running in the summer of 2008, and over the past two years I fell in love with the sport.”
On October 10, 2010 Joanna will take the ultimate challenge and conquer the 2010 Chicago Marathon. It is common for marathon runners to raise money to support causes that are near and dear to their hearts. In pursuit of achieving her personal goal, she will be dedicating her time and effort to help raise $2,000 for the University of Chicago Celiac Disease Center. The Center is dedicated to raising diagnosis rates for celiac disease and meeting the critical needs of people with this condition through education, research and advocacy.
If you are interested in supporting Joanna with a financial donation, please visit the following web site: https://celiacdisease.net/donate-now.
Be sure to select the YES radio button when asked, “Is this donation in memory or in honor of someone”. A box will open up and please enter the name “Joanna Bastermajian” when prompted. Your support is greatly appreciated! HOLIDAY SAMPLING EVENT Join us to sample all of the items that will be available for special order for the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. More information about products available will be posted closer to the event.
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