Rasheed Clarke
Current age: 40
Erika Hillenmayer
Current age: 46
CJ papuro
Current age: 30
Rasheed Clarke is a radio broadcaster, blogger, and marketing specialist in Toronto, Canada. He was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2008. To help him and others better understand the condition, he has written a book of short stories about living with UC. After various treatments failed to get his UC under control, he had his colon removed in 2013, and has been living with a J-pouch since 2014. Rasheed enjoys running, cycling, and hiking, and has raised thousands of dollars for Crohn’s and Colitis Canada through fundraising runs.
Rasheed Clarke
Erika Hillenmayer was diagnosed with UC at age 21 after having symptoms for years prior to her diagnosis. She received emergency surgery that led her to have a permanent ileostomy on her 30th birthday. Formerly a dance teacher, Erika remains active and lives to inspire others. She now channels her energy into her role as a personal assistant and finds solace in yoga and meditation. She also finds joy in having fun with her nieces, nephews, family and friends.
Erika Hillenmayer
Carlos Cabrera, also known as CJ Papuro, is a UC advocate for people of color. He is an ambassador for Color of Crohn’s & Chronic Illness (COCCI). As a personal fitness trainer, CJ shares his fitness inspirations on Instagram to encourage others living with UC to get active and take care of their body and mind. He was diagnosed with UC at age 24. Before UC, he served four years in the Marine Corps as an Amphibious Assault Vehicle operator.
CJ Papuro
by Ulcerative Colitis