Vanderhoof woman secures scholarship from Crohn’s and Colitis Canada

A first-year nursing student at CNC has landed a national scholarship thanks to her efforts in the classroom and among the inflammatory bowel disease community.

Wynne Fitzpatrick (Win) took home the $5,000 award from Crohn’s and Colitis Canada.

She was diagnosed with perianal Crohn’s disease when she was 13 and managed to balance school life along with regular trips to the BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver and surgeries and recovery.

In addition, the first-year student was also selected for the Clinton Shard Memorial Scholarship.

“When I first got my diagnosis, I was really shy and anxious about it. I feel a lot of people don’t know what Crohn’s disease is, and as a result, they might diminish or question the symptoms, pain and treatments. That happened a lot to me in high school. It was really hard on my mental health with classmates not understanding why I’d miss school or homework. “

“Luckily, my disease is better managed right now. My ostomy bag has been a life changer as it massively reduced the manifesting of abscesses, and the surgeries required to get rid of them. There’s such a stigma around Crohn’s disease and these bags; my experience hasn’t been anything like the horror stories I read online,” said Wynne in a release.

Wynne participated in the Vanderhoof/Prince George Gutsy Walk since 2020 and was Honourary Chair in her first year.

She was born and raised in Vanderhoof and has raised over $62,000 for the BC Children’s Hospital through silent auctions and other events.

“I could have gone south for my study; it would have also been easier with my health situation. But I didn’t want my illness to determine where I’d go to college. Plus, I love the north! Studying at CNC allowed me to stay close to my family and friends while still getting quality education. I also enjoy the free tutoring services and I’m happy with the accommodation to take my tests in the Academic Success Centre. That way, I don’t have to be worried about dealing with tummy noises or other symptoms, and I can focus on my study and becoming the best nurse in the North,” concluded Wynne.

Because of the severity of her Crohn’s disease, Wynne cannot get the necessary health care in her hometown Vanderhoof. Instead, her and her family have to travel 10 hours to Vancouver.

“In a way, Crohn’s is giving back to me,“ shared Wynne.

“I’m going to stay true to the promise I made in the scholarship application: making a positive change and becoming a local nurse in northern B.C.”