Centocor and David Garrard, quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars will continue the In the Zone for Crohn's program this football season to raise awareness and provide funding for Crohn's disease research, education and support. Last year, In the Zone for Crohn's raised $170,000 for the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America.
Centocor Ortho Biotech will again make a donation of $10,000 to the CCFA for each touchdown Garrard scores, passing or rushing, during the 2009 NFL season.
"I feel fortunate to be able to bring even greater awareness to this often misunderstood condition," said David Garrard, quarterback of the Jacksonville Jaguars. "Through my play on the field and by speaking out on my condition, I hope to continue to further educate the public and be an example to others who are living with Crohn's disease."
The program will kick off with the Jaguars' first game of the season on September 13 and will culminate at the end of the 2009 season. A contribution will be donated to the CCFA based on Garrard's total touchdown performance. The In the Zone for Crohn's program kicked off during the 2008 season. By the end of the season, Garrard helped raise $170,000 for the CCFA through his play on the field.
What other Crohn's Disease sufferer has done this? David Garrard scored nearly 50 touchdowns over the past three seasons for the Jaguars. David Garrard is entering his third season as their full-time starting quarterback.
About David Garrard
David Garrard knows first hand the painful, debilitating and often embarrassing effects of Crohn's disease. Prior to the 2004 football season, Garrard began experiencing the excruciating symptoms associated with the disease, lost a significant amount of weight and missed several weeks of pre-season training. Following his diagnosis, David underwent surgery and, in consultation with his doctor, began a treatment regimen. David returned to the playing field by the start of the 2004 season and in 2007 led the team to its first playoff win in eight years.
About Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease, a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract, affects approximately 500,000 Americans, including approximately 100,000 pediatric patients. The cause of Crohn's disease is not known, but the disease is associated with an abnormality of the immune system that could be triggered by viral or bacterial infections, a genetic predisposition or diet. Symptoms of Crohn's disease can vary but often include abdominal pain and tenderness, frequent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss and fever. For those that ask is there a cure for crohn's disease, There is currently no cure for Crohn's disease.