Lauder Fellow Matty Fisher Leads the Way in IBD Awareness and Advocacy

In a recent Jewish News UK article, Matty Fisher, a Lauder Fellow with the World Jewish Congress, sheds light on an often-overlooked issue: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) within the Jewish community. With Ashkenazi Jews up to four times more likely to develop IBD, Fisher’s work plan focuses on raising awareness, fostering support, and encouraging open dialogue.

Launched during Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Week, this campaign focuses on awareness, support, and discussion. By leveraging social media and partnerships with organizations like Camp Simcha and Jewish Digest, Fisher aims to educate young Jews about the importance of early diagnosis and create spaces for open dialogue.

The initiative also includes a “Young Jews with IBD Network,” providing university students and young professionals with a vital community of support to share experiences and navigate challenges. Plans to integrate these conversations into communal events, like Limmud 2024, underline Fisher’s vision of fostering inclusivity and understanding.

Through his work, Fisher reminds us that addressing invisible disabilities strengthens the bonds within our community. Follow @jewswithibd on Instagram and join the movement to make IBD visible and ensure no one feels alone.

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