UC experts promote Take Steps to support Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation’s largest, most impactful fundraising event in Southwest Ohio takes place Saturday, June 7.

University of Cincinnati gastroenterologist Susan Kais, MD, and Emily Scott, a UC gastroenterology physician assistant, recently appeared on ARC Cincinnati on WKRC-TV/Local 12 to talk about Take Steps.

Kais, an assistant professor in the Division of Digestive Diseases in the Department of Internal of Medicine in the UC College of Medicine, explained that Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, includes two chronic conditions — ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.

Symptoms of both can include abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, blood in the stool, fatigue and unintentional weight loss. Kais said anyone having these symptoms needs to see a doctor to address what might be the cause. She also talked about UC's IBD Center of Excellence and its unique multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

"A lot of patients suffer in silence," said Kais. 

So, she said that is why she and colleagues will be at the Take Steps walk to raise awareness and show support for patients and their families.

"Most gastrointestinal concerns, but especially IBD, is absolutely an invisible illness," said Scott. "It's something that many people don't feel comfortable talking about, and I was actually diagnosed with Crohn's disease when I was 16 years old, and it's a large part of why I do what I do today."

She talked about how her own journey has influenced how she cares for her patients. 

"My own personal experience has really deepened the understanding and empathy I have for my patients that are fighting this illness every day," said Scott.

Scott will be honored at this year's walk as the 2025 Take Steps Honored Healthcare Hero. The event starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday, June 7 at Yeatman's Cove at Sawyer Point. Those who wish to take part can register in advance or register at the event. It's free to take part.

Watch the interview at the 7:00 mark as Kais and Scott presented ARC anchors Bob Herzog and Jen Dalton with their own walk shirts from the UCincy Bearcat IBD Warriors team.

Featured image at top: ARC Cincinnati anchors Bob Herzog and Jen Dalton with UC gastroenterologist Susan Kais, MD, and UC gastroenterology physician assistant Emily Scott at the Local 12 studios. Photo/Megan Burgasser/UC Media Relations + Content.