Scarsdale's Tommy Hess to be Honored by the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation

Tommy Hess, an advocate for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, past president of the young professionals in NYC and first recipient of the Young Humanitarian award will be recognized with the Foundation’s Community Impact Award at this year’s Quest for a Cure Gala. The event is scheduled for October 5, 2024, at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, New York.

Tommy's journey with ulcerative colitis began on May 25, 1994, when he was just about to celebrate his 21st birthday. Instead of a joyful surprise party planned by his family, he faced a life-threatening situation in his hospital room at Mount Sinai. A team of doctors burst in, declaring an urgent need for surgery to save his life. That day marked the beginning of a long and challenging battle against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Following the unexpected surgery, Tommy spent a month recovering in the hospital, which included a second operation and battling a severe infection due to a ruptured colon. His health struggles continued for years, with Tommy enduring six surgeries, various medications, and debilitating arthritis in his 20s—a difficult side effect of IBD that made even simple tasks like sitting or standing a challenge.

Thanks to advancements in treatment, the support of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, and the love of his family and friends, Tommy has been enjoying good health since his last surgery in 2017. His resilience and determination have made him a beacon of hope for many living with similar conditions.

The upcoming Quest for a Cure Gala promises to be a memorable evening filled with purpose and community spirit. Chaired by fellow Scarsdale resident Jesse Edelman, the event will feature a silent auction, cocktails, dinner, awards, and entertainment, drawing over 300 supporters from Westchester, Fairfield Counties, and beyond. It is the largest annual fundraiser for the Connecticut/Westchester Chapter of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, aimed at raising critical funds for IBD research and support services.

Tickets for the Quest for a Cure Gala are priced at $375 for individuals and $3,750 for a table of ten. Those interested in attending or supporting the mission can find more information at https://onecau.se/cw2024gala.

The Crohn's & Colitis Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to finding cures for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis while enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Over the years, the foundation has invested more than $350 million in vital research initiatives, educational programs, and support services for the estimated 3.1 million individuals living with IBD and their families.

For further inquiries about the event or the foundation, please contact Jennifer Jara at Jjara@crohnscolitisfoundation.org or (475) 422-6178.