We believe this controvery needs to be addressed for 2 very simple reasons:

• IF M. paratuberculosis is the cause of some cases of Crohn's disease, these patients have undergone over 25 years of needless duress and suffering because of a politically motivated controversy. A similar situation occurred with Helicobacter pylori and ulcers - Crohn's disease should not follow the same course.
  
  
• IF M. paratuberculosis is NOT the cause of some cases of Crohn's disease, a great deal of effort, resources, and money is being wasted in addressing this issue. If the controversy can be resolved and M. paratuberculosis is not a causative agent in Crohn's disease, then these efforts, resources and money can be devoted to more fruitfull efforts that may provide some relief to suffering patients.

• Join The Crohn's Disease Initiative Project. For a small membership fee, you can join The Crohn's Disease Initiative and have access to certain parts of the site which are not available to the general public, including the ability to interact and ask questions (including private) of the investigators on the project. Join The Crohn's Disease Initiative
  
  
• Make a Donation. As we strive to address this issue, we will undoubtedly suffer financial restraints which will impede our progress and efforts. As such, any donation you would like to make would be greatly appreciated. We have established a variety of donation and sponsorship classes to suit your individual interests. Make a Donation
  
  
• Pass the Word Around. There is no better way to support The Crohn's Disease Initiative than to spread the word and let as many people as possible know about what we are trying to achieve. If everyone helps just a little, we will make major strides. Here are a few ways you can help spread the word:
  
  
  • Tell your friends and family to visit The Crohn's Disease Initiative Website. Maybe when they visit and learn what we are attempting to accomplish, they will join our project, make a donation, or both.
    
    
  • Use your facebook page to promote our project, website, and overall efforts to increase awareness. Recommend the same to your family and friends.
    
    
  • Twitter Us. If you use Twitter, use Twitter as a means to increase awareness of our efforts. The more people we can get involved, from patients and friends to Scientists, the greater opportunities we will have to make major advances.
    
    
  • Community Forums and Blogs are a great way to promote The Crohn's Disease Initiative Website and our efforts. If you are not a blogger or otherwise a contributor to forums, now might be a good time to start and spread the word.
    
    
  • YouTube Videos are also a great method of spreading the word. People love to watch videos, whether serious or humorous, so make a video and promote The Crohn's Disease Initiative in your presentation. You might be suprised how much attention you can get from a video.