Real Life. Real People. Real Change.

Additional Diagnosis: Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Originally from Killeen, TX, D’andre Hardy now resides in North Carolina with her husband and daughter. Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2000, she underwent a transformative health journey, including a temporary ostomy in 2013 and the decision to have her colon fully removed in 2020. Living with a permanent ostomy, she is a passionate advocate for individuals with Crohn’s disease and other invisible illnesses, working to raise awareness and foster understanding.

In 2023, she joined COGI after attending her first Equity in GI Conference, where she discovered a vibrant, supportive community of patients with similar experiences. “COGI truly feels like a family,” she shares. “You’re embraced just as you are, without the need to overexplain yourself. The access to doctors and medical research empowered me to better navigate my healthcare journey.”

Beyond her advocacy work, D’andre enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and staying up to date with pop culture. She continues to contribute to COGI’s mission, helping others find the same sense of belonging and empowerment that inspired her to join.

Reynelda Solitaire is a native of Tacoma, WA, with an IBD journey that began in December of 2018 being diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and has since been on a journey to understand more about IBD, finding community in the BIPOC GI space and being an advocate for those most underserved. She became involved with COGI in January of 2023 as an Ambassador. Reynelda is always seeking ways to share her skills and love for community with organizations she is passionate about to help create more inclusive and supportive opportunities for BIPOC patients and caregivers. She is a board member with the CCF NW chapter and the Therapy Fund Foundation, Secretary for Tacoma NAACP branch and a member of the WIAA WCD 3 high school athletics Eligibility committee.

Additional Diagnosis: Ulcerative Colitis, Chronic Sacroiliitis

Hello, my name is Shelee (with an accent over the last “e”). 🙂 I am the mother of two wonderful children: a beautiful, educated, and busy 20-year-old daughter and a handsome, smart, and active 10-year-old son. My experiences with my children, as well as my own health challenges, have taught me the true meaning of learning every day.

Despite living with Crohn’s disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Sacroiliitis, I remain eager to thrive in life to the fullest, one day at a time. I have developed a keen interest in helping others avoid similar medical challenges. I believe my energy can be effectively channeled by collaborating with COGI and other organizations, allowing me to contribute to a solution-oriented community rather than becoming part of the problem. As a natural-born advocate, I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to embark on this new advocacy position with COGI.