Paul Orton

I'm taking on the Live Fearless Challenge this September.

I’m taking on the Live Fearless Challenge this September to raise awareness and funds for the almost 180,000 Australians living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

It's been a year and a half since my final surgery and I'm here to raise more awareness and valuable funds for Crohn's & Colitis Australia. Thank you to all those who supported me last year. I was overwhelmed by the support, encouragement and donations. It had a huge impact on me personally as I shared my story for the first time publicly and more than that, it helped raise awareness on these silent diseases that affect so many families and individuals.

After being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2019, life threw a curveball and in 2023, after 4 months in hospital, I had major surgery to remove my sick colon. It was one of the most challenging times for me and my family, however, with the support of some amazing people, a great medical team and our faith in God, we have come through better because of it. 

Life on the other side of the surgery isn't as it was but I am so thankful for the life that I have. I am now able to do so much of what I couldn't do for so long and I'm loving it. 

That’s why I’m getting active this September and aiming to complete 150km. Every kilometre is for the thousands of people living with IBD who face this in silence.

Consider supporting me as I take on the LFC! Your donation will help fund research, patient support, education and advocacy - because no one should have to manage this disease on their own.