Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation to Honor Benatar

“I am happy to do what I can – to be informed and volunteer and donate whenever I can, to get rid of this horrible disease,” said Diane Benatar.

Benatar first became involved with the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation alongside her late husband, Morris, who battled the disease since he was a boy. Morris ultimately lost his lifelong battle with Crohn’s disease in 2016.

This prompted his family and friends to come together to fight back. They started Rockin’ for the Cure in 2017 (which was spearheaded by Morris’ sister, Ruth Benatar Falkenstein). Since then, the event has raised nearly $400,000 for IBD research, education, and support. Because of Benatar’s longtime support of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, she will be honored as the Citizen of the Year at the Foundation’s Torch Gala on Feb. 7.

Crohn’s is a scary disease and clearly there are familial markers. Diane and Morris have two children – Leah Benatar Gordon and Steven Benatar. Leah was diagnosed with Crohn’s at the age of 17. She was working at summer camp as a counselor and started experiencing symptoms. At the end of the summer, they started to pursue testing.

Diane Benatar recognized the symptoms right away. Leah went in for a colonoscopy and was diagnosed 20 years ago. Leah has been in remission for years. She and her husband, David Gordon, have two children, ages four and eight years.

“My Crohn’s affects me because of my dad, and fear for my children, who are both healthy thus far,” explained Leah. “My husband I donate regularly to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation … the reason that the Foundation is so important to me is for my kids,” said Leah. “Because if the worst thing happened and they got their own diagnoses, I would want them to have all of the resources available to live healthy lives.”

Diane Benatar, a managing general partner at Greater Southern Home Recreation, is just happy to be able to do what she can to support the Foundation that has helped so many people. Her dedication and generosity have been critical to the Foundation’s success.

Kim Brammer, regional executive director of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, said, “Diane Benatar embodies what it means to be a true community champion. Her compassion, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those affected by IBD have made a profound impact across Georgia. We are honored to recognize Diane as our Citizen of the Year.”