.png){kind=small}
Connections
Why join us for CONNECTIONS?
You have just heard the diagnosis of Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis and received information from your doctor about treatments, but you still have so many questions. How do I explain this to family members, what is the best way to communicate with my child’s school, how can I support my child, how will this affect the family, and so much more. Where do you look for answers?
CtoC provides peer-to-peer connections and support to families who often feel misunderstood as they are making tough decisions about medical treatments, navigating school and social issues, and dealing with the psychological impact of these diseases. Many people do not understand how serious Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis can be. We bring attention to these diseases in order to drive funding for research and to let people know they have somewhere to turn for support.
When you contact us, we will connect you with a member of our community who is familiar with the issues you are coping with.
"My son was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, an incurable, lifelong chronic illness. This has inspired me to do whatever I can to help other patients and families navigate Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). Connecting to Cure Crohn's and Colitis has been my rock for over 6 years. Our journey has been supported with incredible advice and love."
Bette F.
Click here to read more testimonials.
David Ziring, M.D.
David Ziring, MD, is a pediatric gastroenterologist at Cedars-Sinai Guerin Children’s and Associate Director of the Pediatric IBD Program within the F. Widjaja IBD Institute. He has dedicated his career to improving the lives of children and adolescents living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Dr. Ziring is known for his patient-centered approach and his commitment to helping families navigate the uncertainty and stress that often follow a new diagnosis. He provides individualized care that integrates traditional medical therapy with a growing focus on diet-based approaches and innovative monitoring tools. His clinical interests include advanced therapies for pediatric IBD and the use of point-of-care intestinal ultrasound in the clinic to provide real-time information that enhances conversations, reduces uncertainty, and supports shared decision-making.
Beyond the clinic, Dr. Ziring has contributed to the pediatric IBD community through education, research, and collaboration aimed at improving evidence-based care and expanding patient access to high-quality treatments. He is also passionate about mentorship and training future physicians and pediatric gastroenterologists.
Dr. Ziring is especially committed to supporting families outside of traditional medical visits. He is proud to volunteer with Connecting to Cure, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping children and families impacted by IBD. Through his involvement, he helps facilitate a monthly caregiver support group, creating a welcoming space for parents and caregivers to connect, share practical strategies, and feel less alone while caring for a child with IBD.
Ilana K. Moss, PhD
Ilana K. Moss, PhD, is a pediatric psychologist specializing in the care of children, adolescents, and young adults managing GI, liver, and feeding challenges. She has a particular interest in working with youth with IBD and is continually inspired by the resilience and growth she sees in this population.
Ilana earned her PhD in psychology from the University of Southern California, completed her internship at Children's Hospital Orange County, and her fellowship in pediatric GI and feeding psychology at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She then worked at Children's Hospital Los Angeles from 2019-2026 as its first GI and liver transplant psychologist, where she helped establish psychology within the GI program. She has worked with children and adolescents with Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease across both inpatient and outpatient settings, supporting families from the time of diagnosis to the point they transition to adult care. Her research has explored the relationship between sleep, psychosocial stress, and IBD symptoms in adolescents.
She recently co-founded Streamind Health, a mission-driven behavioral health company that delivers evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and young adults with medical conditions and health challenges via telehealth. She also maintains a private practice in LA. Ilana is so grateful to partner with Connecting to Cure as a support group co-leader and looks forward to continuing this work in order to enhance the psychosocial functioning of individuals with IBD and their loved ones.
Daniel Leighton
Daniel Leighton is a Los Angeles-based artist, filmmaker, and technologist living with Crohn’s disease. Diagnosed at birth, Daniel has undergone multiple surgeries, including the removal of his colon at age 11, resulting in a permanent ileostomy. His experiences with chronic illness have deeply shaped his life and creative work, which explores emotions, vulnerability, resilience, and connection.
As a Connecting to Cure facilitator, Daniel brings his lived experience with IBD and his passion for creating spaces where people feel seen, understood, and supported. He is passionate about connecting with others in the IBD community and helping people navigate the emotional experiences that can come with living with a chronic illness.
Harmon Clarke
Harmon Clarke was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at the age of 15. After undergoing his first colectomy, he was later diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. His journey has included more than 30 surgeries, extended hospitalizations, and he currently lives with an ostomy. These experiences inspired a passion for understanding health and helping others navigate the physical and emotional challenges of chronic illness.
Harmon went on to earn his Master’s degree from Cedars-Sinai and completed a Health and Wellness Coaching certification through Harvard Medical School. Today, he works at Attune Health in Beverly Hills, where he brings together his lived experience as a patient with his work in clinical research, nutrition, health coaching, meditation, breathwork, and emerging health technologies.
As a support group facilitator with Connecting to Cure, Harmon hopes to create a space where people living with IBD feel understood, supported, and empowered. His goal is to remind others that while illness may be part of our story, it does not define who we are or what is possible for our lives.
CONNECTIONS Support Group Facilitators
Gina Lacortigila
I am an IBD patient (Crohn’s disease) and mama to a wonderful boy. He’s my entire world, and his presence constantly inspires me to learn and grow. I’m obsessed with makeup and nails and love bowling. I’m also a movie and comedy sitcom enthusiast! Ted Lasso! Cmon! Talk about people helping people through life! I love engaging in deep conversations and listening to people’s life stories. My medical journey has taught me the importance of self-advocacy. I’ve always believed that my empathy is a crucial part of who I am, helping me make others feel valued and understood. Above all, I love being able to support and uplift anyone who needs someone in their corner!
Maya Scholder
Maya Scholder is from Chicago, Illinois, and now lives in Columbus, Ohio. Diagnosed with Crohn's disease in 2023, Maya has undergone four surgeries and lived with a temporary ostomy bag. Maya works in the marketing department at Nationwide Children's Hospital, where she received her diagnosis and initial treatment. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, and attending concerts.
Founding Connections Programs Advisor and Facilitator
In recognition of his foundational role in establishing Connecting to Cure's support group program, facilitating the caregiver group for many years, and serving as a trusted mentor as the program grew.
Connecting to Cure is deeply grateful to Edward Feldman, MD, for helping launch our support group program in 2017. His guidance, compassion, and commitment shaped the foundation of our patient and caregiver support groups. As a facilitator, mentor, and advocate, his influence continues to be felt throughout our community, and we are honored to recognize his legacy.