A new app allows people to experience first-hand how Crohn's or Colitis can affect every part of someone's body and every aspect of their lives.
Last week Crohn's & Colitis UK, in development with Takeda, launched In My Shoes.
The innovative app allows anyone to step into the life of someone living with Crohn’s or Colitis for a day.
From depleting energy levels to managing pain, from rushing to the toilet to juggling work and a social life, the app allows friends, family and co-workers, to see the affects of the condition first-hand.
It has been downloaded 4,500 times since the launch on Tuesday 19 November.
In My Shoes was also shortlisted for UXUK Best Education or Learning Experience Award alongside entries from well-known digital industry players.
Crohn’s & Colitis UK was the only charity to feature in the category which also included BBC, Jolly Phonics and SkillsForge.
“We’re thrilled that the In My Shoes app was shortlisted for this award, as it shows how digital technology can be used to build empathy and understanding for people living with Crohn’s or Colitis,” said Sarah Sleet, CEO of Crohn’s & Colitis UK.
“The calibre of award entries was really high, and while we did not win, we’re honoured to have achieved this recognition.”
Living with Crohn's or Colitis
In My Shoes was created to help improve people's understanding of what it is like to live Crohn’s or Colitis.
It includes 24-hour notifications and tasks that prompt the user to think about how daily life is impacted.
The aim is to break down stigma, reduce isolation and encourage people to think of ways they can support friends, family and colleagues living with Crohn’s or Colitis.
“We’re proud to have been shortlisted for this award and proud of the difference it’s made to people living with Crohn’s or Colitis,” said Craig Adkins, GI Business Unit Director, Takeda.
“It’s encouraging to know of the conversations the In My Shoes App has started, and the practical things people are doing to support those with Crohn’s or Colitis, inspired by the app experience.”
While there are more than 300,000 people across the UK living with Crohn’s or Colitis, most people have never even heard of these conditions.
Because of the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding these diseases there are many more people still undiagnosed, living without support and suffering in silence.
To address this, the In My Shoes app aims to break down stigma, reduce isolation, and encourage people to think of ways to support friends, family, and colleagues living with Crohn’s or Colitis.
The app is available to download here.