From Autoimmune Diagnoses to Funding Scientific Research—A Recent Graduate's Story is Inspiring and Empowering

Celiac.com 01/21/2025 - Isabella Dickman’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and hope. Diagnosed at just five years old with two life-threatening autoimmune diseases—eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and celiac disease—Dickman has faced challenges that would overwhelm many. Yet, instead of allowing these conditions to define her life, the University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate has used them as motivation to find a cure, not only for herself but for others like her.

Her personal struggle with celiac disease and EoE has shaped her academic and professional path, culminating in a Bachelor of Science degree in Community and Environmental Sociology, paired with certificates in Global Health and Public Policy. These accomplishments reflect not only her resilience but her dedication to improving health outcomes for people living with severe food allergies and autoimmune diseases.

Living with Celiac Disease and Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Isabella's Reality

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For people like Isabella, food is not a source of joy but a daily challenge. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition where the ingestion of gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine. The only current treatment is a strict gluten-free diet, which eliminates all gluten-containing foods.

Isabella’s case is even more complex. In addition to celiac disease, she was diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory condition where white blood cells, called eosinophils, build up in the esophagus. This leads to severe reactions to common foods. As Isabella describes, her allergies extend far beyond gluten: wheat, soy, nuts, dairy, eggs, chicken, and even sweet potato are off-limits.

Managing these dietary restrictions is no small feat, particularly in a college environment. Social outings, dining halls, and casual meals with friends often pose risks. However, Isabella has proven that with determination, such challenges can be met and overcome. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the real-life impact of celiac disease and food allergies, as well as the need for better treatment and awareness.

Turning Struggle into Purpose: Bella Rose Designs

Even as a child, Isabella turned her adversity into action. At the age of eight, she founded Bella Rose Designs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds for research. Starting with handmade beaded bracelets and bookmarks, Isabella sold her creations to generate proceeds for Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, where she was treated following her diagnoses.

To date, Bella Rose Designs has raised over $40,000 for medical research under the guidance of Dr. Marc Rothenberg, a leading expert in eosinophilic esophagitis. Isabella’s unwavering commitment to funding research has made a tangible impact, helping scientists inch closer to understanding EoE and exploring pathways for a cure.

Today, Bella Rose Designs continues its mission through handmade greeting cards crafted by Isabella herself. What started as a small gesture has grown into a meaningful contribution to the medical community—a testament to the difference one determined individual can make.

Research and Advocacy: Paving the Way for a Cure

Isabella’s passion for advancing medical research didn’t stop with fundraising. During her time at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, she actively pursued opportunities to contribute to scientific progress. Conducting research in the field of autoimmune diseases, Isabella focused on improving treatment options and understanding the genetic components of EoE.

Currently, treatments for EoE and celiac disease are limited. The gluten-free diet is the only solution for celiac patients, while EoE sufferers rely on strict elimination diets or medications to manage inflammation. As Isabella points out, researchers have identified specific gene mutations linked to EoE, offering hope for targeted treatments in the future. However, a definitive cure remains elusive.

For people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, Isabella’s work highlights a critical truth: the medical field is making strides, but greater awareness, funding, and research are essential to finding lasting solutions.

What This Means for the Gluten-Free Community

Isabella’s journey holds profound significance for those living with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Her advocacy underscores the need for:

• Greater Awareness: Many people remain undiagnosed or face dismissive attitudes from healthcare providers. As Isabella experienced, some doctors mistakenly equate celiac disease only with obvious symptoms like blood in the stool, ignoring other signs like bloating, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Her story is a call for patients to advocate for themselves and for doctors to take concerns seriously.
• Improved Treatments: While the gluten-free diet has been life-changing for many, it is not a cure. Accidental gluten exposure, limited food options, and hidden gluten in products can make it difficult to maintain a truly gluten-free lifestyle. Isabella’s efforts in research remind us that scientific advancements are needed to create safer, more effective treatments.
• Community Support: Living with severe food allergies or celiac disease can feel isolating, especially in social settings where food is central. Isabella’s success demonstrates the power of resilience, support systems, and shared experiences. Organizations and individuals working together can make a difference, whether through fundraising, education, or advocacy.

Inspiration for Future Generations: Isabella’s determination to find a cure for EoE and support those with food allergies serves as an inspiration to others navigating similar challenges. Her story encourages young patients to dream big, pursue their goals, and become advocates for their own health.

A Hopeful Future

Isabella Dickman’s journey from a child facing life-threatening diagnoses to a university graduate making strides in research is nothing short of remarkable. Her resilience, paired with her commitment to finding a cure for EoE and improving outcomes for those with celiac disease, offers hope to the gluten-free and food allergy communities.

Through Bella Rose Designs, Isabella has proven that small actions—like selling handmade cards—can contribute to life-changing advancements. Her work reminds us all that while living with celiac disease or severe food allergies can be challenging, there is hope on the horizon.

For those with celiac disease, Isabella’s story is both inspiring and empowering. It highlights the importance of advocacy, research, and community support in improving lives. As Isabella continues her mission, the gluten-free community can take comfort in knowing that progress is being made and that a future free from the burden of food allergies may not be so far away.

Isabella’s unwavering commitment to advancing research and supporting those with autoimmune diseases is a beacon of hope. Her personal experiences with celiac disease and EoE have driven her to create change, proving that adversity can inspire action. For those navigating a gluten-free lifestyle, her story serves as a powerful reminder that progress is possible, and together, we can work toward a brighter, healthier future.

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