Matthew Brunken, a professional runner for team LRCN, has overcome Crohn’s disease to win the BRIN series 2023. Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. It can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Despite this, Brunken has managed to achieve great success in his running career, inspiring others in the Crohn’s disease community to pursue their dreams.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system. It can cause inflammation in any part of the digestive tract, from the mouth to the anus. The symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary widely from person to person, but may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and weight loss. There is currently no cure for Crohn’s disease, but there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms.
The Journey of Matthew Brunken
Matthew Brunken was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2018, but he refused to let the disease hold him back. He continued to pursue his passion for running and has since become a successful long-distance runner. In 2023, he won the BRIN series, a three-part 10K race series that takes place in Nebraska. His victory is a testament to his determination and perseverance, and it serves as an inspiration to others in the Crohn’s disease community who may be struggling to achieve their goals.
Key Takeaways
- Matthew Brunken, a professional runner for team LRCN, overcame Crohn’s disease to win the BRIN series 2023.
- Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract.
- Brunken’s victory is an inspiration to others in the Crohn’s disease community to pursue their dreams despite the challenges they may face.
Understanding Crohn’s Disease
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. The inflammation can occur anywhere from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly affects the small intestine and colon. It is a chronic condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
The exact cause of Crohn’s disease is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and an abnormal immune response. Research suggests that the immune system in people with Crohn’s disease attacks harmless bacteria in the digestive tract, causing inflammation.
Symptoms of Crohn’s disease can vary depending on the location and severity of the inflammation. Some people may experience mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Common symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss, and fever.
Diagnosis of Crohn’s disease typically involves a combination of tests, including blood tests, stool tests, imaging tests, and endoscopy. Treatment for Crohn’s disease varies depending on the severity of the disease and the symptoms experienced by the patient. Treatment options may include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
It is important for people with Crohn’s disease to work closely with their healthcare provider to manage their symptoms and prevent complications. With proper management, many people with Crohn’s disease are able to lead healthy and active lives.
Matthew Brunken, a professional runner for team LRCN, overcame Crohn’s disease to win the BRIN series in 2023.
The Journey of Matthew Brunken
Matthew Brunken is a professional runner for Team LRCN who has overcome Crohn’s disease to achieve success in his athletic career. Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the digestive tract. The severity of the disease varies from person to person, and the symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, skin problems, and disability.
Matthew was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at the age of 16. He struggled with the disease for several years, experiencing severe symptoms that affected his ability to run and his quality of life. Despite the challenges he faced, Matthew refused to give up on his dreams of becoming a professional runner.
Matthew underwent various treatments for his Crohn’s disease, including medications, dietary changes, and surgery. He also worked with his doctors to manage his symptoms and maintain his health. Over time, Matthew’s condition improved, and he was able to resume his training and compete at a high level.
In 2023, Matthew won the BRIN Series, a prestigious running competition that attracts top athletes from around the world. His victory was a testament to his perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Matthew’s journey has inspired many others who are living with Crohn’s disease or other chronic illnesses to pursue their dreams and never give up.
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Other Athletes Competing After Crohn’s Diagnosis
Matthew Brunken is not the only athlete to have overcome Crohn’s disease to compete at the highest level. There are several other athletes who have managed to excel in their respective sports despite being diagnosed with this chronic inflammatory disease.
One such athlete is Kathleen Baker, an American swimmer who won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Baker was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease when she was just 14 years old, but she refused to let the disease get in the way of her dreams. She tried several treatments to find what worked best for her and ultimately found a regimen that allowed her to continue competing at the highest level.
Another athlete who has managed to compete at a high level despite being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease is James Morrison, a British golfer. Morrison was diagnosed with the disease when he was a teenager, but he quickly excelled in golf despite the flare-ups he experienced. He has since competed in many world competitions.
Alyxandria Treasure is another athlete who has refused to let Crohn’s disease hold her back. Treasure is an American powerlifter who was diagnosed with the disease in 2013. Despite the challenges she has faced, she has continued to compete and has even set several world records in her weight class.
Nance Buckley is a former professional basketball player who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease in 2006. Despite the challenges she faced, she continued to play basketball at a high level and even went on to become an elite athlete with Crohn’s disease. She is now passionate about sharing the message that the condition shouldn’t hold anyone back and that people with Crohn’s disease can still achieve their dreams.
These athletes, along with Matthew Brunken, are a testament to the fact that Crohn’s disease doesn’t have to be a barrier to achieving athletic success. With the right treatment and mindset, anyone can overcome the challenges of this disease and compete at the highest level.


Matthew Brunken is editor in chief of several digital assets, with an expansive toolbox of skills enabling him to cogently handle diverse topics. He holds an MBA in Investment Science; is an accomplished endurance athlete; maintains certifications in coaching, horticulture, process improvement, and customer discovery. Brunken has published multiple fiction works and contributed to non-fiction books in the sports physiology and culture arenas. Visit on Matthew Brunken (@matthew_brunken) / X
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