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IGNITE – It is OK if your illness changes you.

IGNITE – It is OK if your illness changes you.

In a matter of days, Caitlyn went from being a full-time student athlete (following her dream of running at a D1 college) to being a full-time patient (diagnosed with IBD and severe visceral hyperalgesia). She went from balancing a rigorous training schedule and school, to managing doctors appointments, meds and nearly constant pain and fatigue. In the midst of this, she turned 21 and was pushed to find an adult care provider who would take her complicated case. She wanted someone to fight for her, who took time to understand how her illness was affecting her life and mental health, who recognized how hard she was fighting and who would support and advocate for her. In time, she found those people. With new treatments, her health began to turn around and she was able to return to school. However, her collegiate running career had come to an end. I found myself grieving for my past life. For a body that I no longer had.”

Once known affectionately as the “runner girl,” who was Caitlyn without running? It turns out she is many things! Read her story to find out.

Be inspired by Caitlyn’s #IgniteTalk 🔥


About The Author

Michael Jannicelli

Michael Jannicelli - "A PROVEN BUSINESS FIRESTARTER & BRANDING GENIUS" a true natural born Trendsetter. • Created over 100 products under 3 brands, sold in 30+ countries worldwide and influencing youth across the globe. • Featured in Forbes magazine +over 100 print publications, television talk shows, major motion pictures and national radio stations. • Co-founder and VP of Bliss beverage USA and President/co-founder of Socko International - fastest growing privately held beverage company in US (Forbes) with Hogan Energy & Raw Energy WWE. • Co-founder of Throwdown Industries (2003) - leading brand in multibillion dollar Impact/Action Sports Market (products designed for superior MN • Diagnosed with auto-immune diseases aged 13; using his experience to help others and promote a positive message while developing edgy products to benefit people with chronic illness.