Trust Your Gut: Community Event Focused on Digestive Health Set for May 16

By Sym Posey | The Birmingham Times

A free, educational brunch event designed to spark conversation, raise awareness, and improve health outcomes in minority communities is set to return to downtown Birmingham on Saturday, May 16.

Hosted by the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, the program — part of its national “MyIBD Connections” initiative — will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at The Fennec. Organizers say the event blends expert insight with an approachable, community-centered atmosphere, offering attendees both practical knowledge and a supportive environment.

“This is really about education first,” said Kira Gilbert, executive director of the foundation’s local chapter. “We want people to understand what a healthy gut looks like, what symptoms to pay attention to, and how to advocate for themselves in a medical setting.”

The event is specifically geared toward the African American community, a group that research shows is often underdiagnosed or diagnosed later when it comes to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. By focusing on early awareness, organizers hope to close that gap.

“Many people experience symptoms for years without seeking help,” Gilbert said. “There’s often embarrassment around discussing digestive issues, even within families. That delay can lead to more severe health complications.”

While IBD is not yet curable, it is treatable — making early detection and informed care critical. The program aims to bridge that knowledge gap before patients even enter a doctor’s office.

Unlike traditional health seminars, the May 16 event is designed to feel welcoming and interactive. Guests will be treated to a complimentary seated brunch — featuring Southern-inspired favorites — while engaging in a mix of conversation, presentations, and activities.

The morning begins with a casual “mix and mingle” session, followed by a moderated program that includes:

• “Lingo Bingo”, an interactive game to help attendees learn key IBD terminology
• A physician-led discussion on treatment options and patient-provider collaboration
• A presentation from a mental health professional addressing the emotional toll of chronic illness
• A live Q&A panel where attendees can ask questions directly to experts

“It’s not about talking at people,” Gilbert explained. “It’s about creating real conversations and giving people tools they can actually use.”

Now in its second year in Birmingham, the event is part of a broader five-year national initiative in collaboration with UAB and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The long-term goal is to refine the program locally and eventually expand it to communities across the country.

Last year’s Birmingham gathering drew about 35 attendees, and organizers hope to double participation this year. Registration is free but required, as space is limited.

Beyond education, the event emphasizes connection — between patients, families, and healthcare providers.

As Birmingham continues to host events that blend community engagement with public health awareness, organizers hope this initiative will encourage more open dialogue—and ultimately, better outcomes — for those affected by IBD.

“We want people to leave feeling supported,” Gilbert said. “Whether they’re living with IBD, suspect they might be, or just want to learn more, there’s a place for them here.”

Event Details

• What: MyIBD Connections community brunch and education event
• When: Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to noon
• Where: The Fennec (upstairs private event space)
• Cost: Free (registration required)

For more information or to register, attendees can visit https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/events/myibd-connections-birmingham