Honorees
Honored Heroes share their stories to let other patients know they are not alone on their journeys — because no one should face the challenges and uncertainty of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in isolation. Through their stories, Honorees raise awareness of these diseases, raise funds to support the Foundation’s mission and inspire hope in those living with IBD.
To nominate a Take Steps Honoree, please complete this form.
2024 Maryland Take Steps Honored Hero - Dr. Erika Chiappini
Dr. Chiappini is a pediatric psychologist at Johns Hopkins University who works closely with the GI team to support youth with IBD. Living with IBD can be a stressful experience for children and teens as well as for their families. Because our minds and our guts are very well connected, when one part of the system is stressed, the other can be too. My role as a psychologist is to support children and their families in coping with their diagnosis, following medical recommendations (completing challenging procedures, taking medications regularly, making lifestyle changes), and addressing other factors that can get in the way, like anxiety and mood difficulties, so that they can have the best quality of life. I am grateful to be a part of our GI team and to meet with the families in this community!
