Sharing Stories, Giving Hope, Pursuing Your Dreams

Throughout 25 years of Great Comebacks™, we have found that the words that matter most to people living with the daily challenges of Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer and other diseases that can lead to ostomy surgery are those from others who have been there. 

That’s why the Great Comebacks™ Program is much more than an awards program. We are a community of patients who share our experiences with others when they need it most, giving them hope and encouragement so that they too can reclaim their lives and pursue their dreams. 

Our Community: Personal Stories

By scrolling over the pictures of our Great Comebacks™ community below, you can access personal stories of courage and inspiration that may offer insight to a friend or loved one living with a serious intestinal disease or considering ostomy surgery. > To learn more

Rolf Benirschke, Program Founder

As a place kicker for the San Diego Chargers for 10 years, Rolf holds 16 team records and retired as the third most accurate place kicker in NFL history, despite having his career interrupted by ulcerative colitis and ostomy surgery.  Rolf’s vision in creating the Great Comebacks™ Program has gone on to support countless individuals facing the same challenges he once faced. > To learn more

Rob Hill, Global Ambassador

Rob’s story begins like so many others – he was never sick a day in his life until he was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease. Shortly after his life-changing ostomy surgery, Rob decided to raise awareness about intestinal diseases and ostomy surgery. Today, he is on a quest to become the first Crohn’s patient and ostomate to climb the Seven Summits, or the highest peak on all seven continents. He has successfully climbed six to date, with one more summit to go: Mt. Everest. > To learn more