World IBD Day 2026 - It Takes A Village to Live with IBD
World IBD Day is a powerful moment each year for the IBD community, a day where we recognise not only the challenges faced by those living with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, but also the strength, resilience, and determination that define them. For every IBD warrior navigating the ups and downs of these invisible conditions, there is also a circle of people walking the journey alongside them. This year, our theme “It Takes a Village to Live With IBD” highlights the reality that no one manages IBD alone. Loved ones, friends, colleagues, classmates, teachers, employers, healthcare professionals, and communities all play a vital role in helping someone live well with IBD.
This theme is more than a message, it’s a call to action.
In 2026, we are inviting everyone to get involved. Whether you live with IBD yourself or you are part of someone’s support network, there are many meaningful ways to take part. From awareness?raising activities to community events, personal challenges, and workplace or school engagement, this year’s programme offers something for every member of the “village.”
Throughout May, CCI will be hosting a vibrant calendar of free online and in?person events, sharing real stories to shine a light on the lived experience of IBD, and advocating for better understanding, accessibility, and support for those affected. We want the entire community (individuals, families, workplaces, schools, universities, sports/community clubs, and businesses) to stand with us and show that when we come together, the impact is powerful.
Stay connected with us throughout the month as we share updates, opportunities to get involved, and highlights from across Ireland. All information will be available on our website and shared through our social media channels, so be sure to follow along and join the movement.
Because living with IBD takes a village, and this May, we’re showing what our village can do!
Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved in World IBD Day 2026:
Share your story: If you're living with IBD or have been impacted by it (e.g. a loved one supporting someone living with IBD), share your story on social media using the hashtag #WorldIBDDay2026. Your experiences can help others feel less alone and raise awareness about the realities of living with IBD.
Email your story along with a photo to:
Attend an event: Look for World IBD Day events in your community or join us for our own events and activities. These gatherings provide opportunities to connect with others, learn from experts, and show your support for the IBD community. And why not get some CCI merch to show your support even further!
REGISTER FOR OUR WORLD IBD DAY WEBINAR
Register for our May Online Stoma Support Meeting
Register for our Wicklow Patient Information Day
REGISTER FOR OUR MAY CCI BOOK CLUB MEETING
REGISTER TO ATTEND OUR IN-PERSON SUPPORT GROUPS
PURCHASE YOUR CCI MERCH HERE (INCLUDING YOUR VERY OWN COMFORT CREW!)
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Get involved in our May walking Challenge!
Step Up for IBD - Team Step Walking Challenge
Join the challenge with your team (or as an individual if preferred!) and start tracking your steps - we’ll send you a pack once you receive your first donation. The challenge is a show of support for loved ones impacted by IBD to show they do not walk the path alone.
REGISTER FOR THE WALKING CHALLENGE
Together, We Can Make a Difference!
Donate: Consider making a donation to Crohn's and Colitis Ireland to support our ongoing efforts to provide resources, support, and advocacy for individuals with IBD. Your generosity can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by the hidden illness that is inflammatory bowel disease.
Making a donation is simple and can make a significant impact:
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Take the IBD Pledge!
Make a visible difference. Take the IBD Pledge today and show how your business, school or workplace supports the IBD community. Click below for more details.
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'It Takes a Village to Live with IBD' Practical Quick Guide
This World IBD Day, Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland is proud to launch It Takes a Village - a practical, compassionate quick guide on how to support someone living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
IBD is often invisible, unpredictable, and misunderstood. This guide helps families, friends, schools, workplaces, clubs, and communities better understand the realities of living with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis - and shows how belief, flexibility, and kindness can make a real difference.
Created to educate, empower, and build understanding, It Takes a Village offers clear guidance for supporting children, adults, and those living with stomas, reminding us that no one should face IBD alone.
Click below to read and download the guide
Together this World IBD Day, we raise understanding.