Gratitude Stories – Aiden
High school is a time of milestones and discovery, but for Aiden Pearce, it was also a journey of resilience and hope. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at a young age, Aiden’s teenage years were shaped by multiple hospitalizations and surgeries. Despite these challenges, he flourished with the compassionate care of Hasbro Children’s, proving that life’s moments can shine through even in the face of adversity.
Ulcerative colitis—one of two major types of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—affects the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers. The condition is often marked by excruciating pain that Aiden described as “feeling like knives cutting through my stomach.” Other debilitating symptoms included severe diarrhea, fatigue, and unintended weight loss. Crohn’s disease, the other major type of IBD, can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and often involves deeper layers of the bowel wall. Both conditions have a profound impact on quality of life.
“It was like my body was constantly fighting against me," Aiden shared, recalling his most challenging days.
The prevalence of pediatric IBD has been rising steadily, with cases of Crohn's disease increasing by 22% and ulcerative colitis by 29% over the past decade. Recent estimates suggest over 100,000 American youth under the age of 20 live with IBD.
The Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center at Hasbro Children’s is pioneering care for children with IBD, bringing together cutting-edge medical treatments and holistic support to help patients like Aiden thrive. The IBD Center offers advanced biologic therapies and access to clinical trials alongside a dedicated multidisciplinary team, including pediatric surgery, nutrition, and psychology, ensuring a comprehensive approach to care.
“Our goal is to help kids [like Aiden] not just manage their disease but truly thrive,” explains Jason Shapiro, MD, director of the Center. “That’s why our multidisciplinary team brings together experts in pediatric gastroenterology, surgery, nutrition, and psychology—to treat the whole child, not just the disease.”
Aiden’s treatment was a true team effort, combining advanced biologic therapies with surgical interventions, nutritional guidance, and psychological support.
“Managing a life-altering disease like ulcerative colitis means caring for both the patient and their family, who play a key role in support, care, and post-surgery recovery,” says Elizabeth Renaud, MD, a pediatric surgeon deeply involved in Aiden’s care.
Hasbro Children’s is actively participating in clinical trials for new medications, ensuring that families have access to the latest advancements in care.