Our ambassadors

Jacinta Parsons is a broadcaster, radio maker, writer and public speaker who currently co-hosts the Afternoon program on ABC Local Radio Melbourne. She began her radio-life at community radio station 3RRR over a decade ago, where she coordinated live music broadcasts and hosted several shows including Detour and Breakfasters. Jacinta has presented on ABC Radio Melbourne since January 2018. Jacinta speaks and writes about the impact of living with Crohn’s disease and is the author of Unseen: The Secret World of Chronic Illness. 

“I hope by revealing my own challenges with chronic illness, that I can give voice to some of the millions of Australians living with chronic illness, unseen and unheard.” 

Teigan Nash is a TV Presenter, GoPro Ambassador, Friend of Australia, Podcast host, co-founder of Girls Who Glow and lover of dogs. Teigan also lives with Crohn’s disease; she was diagnosed in 2018, so while it is all still new and very early in the remission journey Teigan still lives a fulfilled life. Teigan has travelled the world working and living abroad and she loves the ocean and outdoors. She’s known for her role on popular kids show Saturday Disney and most recently as a host of a travel show on Channel 10, Roads Less Travelled.

Tracey Murrin was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2005. 12 months later after a very aggressive year with a lot of hospital visits, she had most of her large bowel removed and a permanent ileostomy. Tracey is very passionate about raising awareness and helping others with IBD. She has walked the Great Wall of China with an amazing group of people to fundraise and raise IBD awareness, was a finalist in the Great Comeback Awards 2017, and walked in the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay. The most personal event though, was her son’s concert where he sang the song about their journey called F.I.B.D. 

“The stigma of a bowel disease has made some baby steps but we have a long way to go.  I think the general public think we have an upset tummy or maybe something like IBS, no actual idea of the pain, or the impact on mental health. Awareness is a constant goal for us all.”

Kiara Schonberger was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 16 years of age. Kiara’s diagnosis didn’t come as a shock due to her family history of Crohn’s disease and other autoimmune diseases. At the age of 18, Kiara experienced a significant flare up, leading to hospitalisation and an entirely new treatment plan. Kiara now receives regular Infliximab infusions, allowing her to keep up with her academic studies, part-time work, social life, and dancing. The 2019 Live Fearless Challenge was the first time Kiara spoke publicly about her diagnosis.

“By sharing my experiences of diagnosis at 16, hospitalisation at 18, changing treatment plans at 21, whilst maintaining a typical ‘young adult’ routine, others can begin to see how chronic illnesses can impact someone of any age.”

Dylan Swan is a former personal trainer of 8 years, trains 5-7 days a week and competes in multiple events based around strength and fitness. Dylan has battled Crohn’s disease for a decade. Since diagnosis, he has had multiple surgeries including the removal of 80cm of bowel and numerous complications along the way. Starting Infliximab infusions bimonthly drastically improved his quality of life. As a proud family man and a father of four, he tries to lead a very healthy and active life spending the weekends going on hikes and adventures.

“So many people take their health for granted, but I, and anyone that suffers with Crohn’s, knows just how valuable and sometimes rare, feeling good actually is. When I know that I can do what other “normal” people can do, even though I have Crohn’s, it allows me to keep a positive mindset and belief that I won’t let my disease define me. “

Harrison (Haytch) Bence was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 21 years of age. Prior to diagnosis, Haytch suffered with fistulas requiring many surgeries. Over the past 5 years, Haytch has had many ups and downs including persistent pain, 16 surgeries, chronic fatigue, opioid addiction and being judged by numerous doctors due to his appearance. Haytch’s aim is to be the best father he can be, but also to get back into competitive basketball and do all the normal day-to-day activities people take for granted. The Live Fearless Challenge allowed Haytch to spread the word about his daily life and the struggles people with IBD face.

“It’s hard for people to understand why I look okay on the outside, but can’t work a full day or I can’t go out for dinner often. The more people know about this disease the more understanding people will be.”