My sister has Crohn’s disease so I feel like I share it with her. It is my privilege to once again be on hand to photograph the annual benefit luncheon. Our good friend Lois Fink along with state representative Marko Liias helped pass a bill which would give individuals with certain medical condiditons the right to use employee only restrooms if necessitated by their disease. On May 11, 2009 ESHB 1138 was signed into law. Lois received the 2010 Mike McCready & Ashley O’Connor Award.
Mike McCready of Pearl Jam took a moment to pose with Elizabeth Smith (featured speaker) and her family. Elizabeth, 11 years old, has endured Crohn’s for most of her young life yet lives a normal kids life. She plays football, soccer, swims and loves to act!
Last up was Susan Ershler who along with her husband Phil were the first couple in history to climb the fabled Seven Summits including Mt. Everest. Most remarkable is the fact the Susan had never hiked or climbed until she met Phil at age 35. And Phil, battled Crohn’s all through his life as a professional mountain guide. We thank Susan for sharing her inspirational story. Look for their book “Together on top of the World.”
gail ann photography 