Dance Kelly Style

Afflicted with the disease herself, Colleen Kelly Beaman has long been active with the Southern Arizona Celiac Support Group serving in the past as chairperson for the Annual Walk fundraiser.  Click here to read more about the support group.

 

 

 

Celiac Disease is a chronic digestive disorder found in genetically susceptible individuals (predominantly Caucasians of Northern and Southern European ancestry) in which damage to the mucosal surface of the small intestine is caused by an immunologically toxic reaction to the ingestion of foods containing gluten.

 

When gluten is consumed by people with Celiac Disease, the absorptive villi on the surface of the small intestine are damaged or destroyed. As a result, the body is unable to absorb basic nutrients - protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and in some cases water and bile salts. Left untreated, the damage can be life threatening. Long term complications include osteoporosis, Vitamin K deficiency, lactose intolerance, pancreatic disease, intestinal malignancies and nervous system disorders.

 

There is no known cure for Celiac Disease. Eliminating wheat, rye, oats, barley and any products made with these grains is essential. Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, adherence to a gluten-free diet is required.

 

 

The Southern Arizona Celiac Support Group is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support for those diagnosed with Celiac Disease and/or Dermatitis Herpetiformis and their families and friends. Benefits of membership in SACSG include informational newsletters, support group meetings with guest speakers, referral services, library materials, fundraising events for research and education, and ROCK (Raising Our Celiac Kids).

 

For more information on Celiac Disease, including membership and Annual Walk registration, contact the organization at:

 

Southern Arizona Celiac Support Group

P. O. Box 0905

Cortaro, AZ 85652

Phone: (520) 742-4813  email: