Our Story
Connecting Pieces is built on resilience, love, and gratitude. It started with a fashion show fundraiser Keyla, our founder put together, not realizing it would spark something much bigger. That event showed her the power of community and how, when we come together, we can change lives. “As an ostomy patient and mom raising a son with gastrointestinal challenges, I know how overwhelming the journey can feel. I wanted to create a space where others could feel seen, supported, and understood.”
That vision grew stronger when Keyla teamed up with Kim (our previous co-founder) and Dan. Kim, a colorectal cancer survivor and colostomate living with ischemic colitis, and Dan, who has ulcerative colitis, both share a passion for helping others and improving the future for our communities. Today, Connecting Pieces offers resources, emotional support, and life-saving supplies. We’re endlessly grateful for everyone who’s joined us on this journey. Together, we’re building something truly special.
Meet the Team
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Keyla Ire
FOUNDER- CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Welcome to Connecting Pieces. Hi, I’m Keyla—a mom, advocate, and ostomy patient. My journey with Inflammatory Bowel Disease along with raising a son facing similar health challenges, showed me just how isolating and overwhelming life can feel without the right support. I wanted to change that.
What started as a charity fashion show turned into Connecting Pieces—a place where people can find resources, connection, and hope. It’s all about community, showing up for each other, and making sure no one has to face these challenges alone.
I’m deeply thankful for the community we’ve built and the chance to keep growing together.
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Daniel Swanbeck
CO-FOUNDER-BOARD MEMBER
Dan's life took an unexpected turn in 2011 when he was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Despite the new challenges, he persisted as a professional race car driver, achieving wins and success, proving that he could still perform in the highest levels of motorsport. Using his platform, Dan advocated for the IBD community, engaging in various initiatives from charity events to supporting patients directly, culminating in the creation of his own support community.
In this journey, he crossed paths with Keyla, and together, they embarked on a mission to make a difference for those affected by IBD. Their partnership signifies a shared commitment to effecting meaningful change. Dan's story embodies resilience and determination, inspiring others to confront adversity with courage and purpose. As he continues to race against Ulcerative Colitis, Dan's journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of unwavering advocacy.
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Cecilia Lynn MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, CWOCN
BOARD MEMBER
Cecilia Lynn, is a board-certified nurse practitioner specializing in colorectal care and ostomy management. With over a decade of clinical experience, she currently serves patients at Fairfax Colorectal Surgery and has been recognized as one of Seattle Met’s Top Docs. Cecilia has a long-standing commitment to patient advocacy and has served as president of the Ostomy Association of South Texas. As a board member of Connecting Pieces, she brings her clinical expertise and passion for equitable, compassionate care to support our mission and amplify the voices of those living with chronic GI conditions.
Our Amazing Volunteers
Lillyvette Chavez
Megan Alloway
Justin Veloz- Perez
Renika Wood
Tomiyo Williams
Sandra Jones
Christopher Cummings
Raphael Rodrigues
Ashley Turner
Ashley Sara
Yesenia De Jesus
Lisa-Stephanie Valme
Victoria Fabbo
Dr. Denalerie Johnson-Faniel
Dr Ahmad Al Falet
Our Guiding Pillars
Gather.Uplift.Trust
At Connecting Pieces, everything we do is guided by three core pillars:
Gather, Uplift, and Trust (G.U.T.)
These pillars shape how we build community, design programs, and show up for individuals and families navigating chronic and complex health journeys.
🟢 Gather
We create inclusive spaces where patients, caregivers/carepartners, and families can come together virtually and in person to connect, share, and feel less alone.
🟣 Uplift
Through creative wellness, education, and advocacy, we empower individuals to build confidence, care for their bodies, and reclaim joy.
🟡 Trust
We lead with transparency, lived experience, and compassion building trust through ethical practices, community partnerships, and consistent support.
G.U.T in Action
Gather: Global virtual programs connecting patients and caregivers across multiple countries
Uplift: Creative wellness initiatives including Healing Arts and Nourish & Flourish
Trust: Transparent reporting, community-led programming, and partnerships with healthcare and advocacy organizations.
In 2024–2025, Connecting Pieces reached thousands of individuals through education, creative wellness, and direct support