May 2026: May In Motion
May LOOKED LIKE...
students planting seeds.
jars overflowing with gratitude.
rain turning into artwork.
fresh ingredients shared across screens.
summer programs taking shape.
boxes packed with care.
May wasn't about standing still. It was about learning, creating, and preparing for what comes next.
Here's a look at what moved through our community this month.
💜 May 12 WORLD IBD DAY HEALING ARTS
🫙 Our Jar Runneth Over
In partnership with Avery's Hope and Girls With Guts, participants filled illustrated jars with drawings, words, symbols, and reflections representing the people, moments, and experiences that continue to sustain them.
Each jar became a visual reminder that even in difficult seasons, there is still much worth holding onto.
🌧️ What the Rain Grows Healing Arts Workshop
May 24 @ 1:00PM EST
Facilitated by Lisa-Stephanie Valmé, this creative workshop explored growth through the lens of weather, seasons, and change.
Participants
reflected on challenges, transitions, and the unexpected ways difficult experiences can shape new perspectives.
The resulting artwork offered a reminder that growth rarely happens in perfect conditions.
📅 Upcoming Sessions: June 30 @ 6:30PM EST
→ Learn more about Healing Arts
Through creativity and reflection, participants explored what it means to hold onto hope, gratitude, and growth. Just days later, those same themes continued beyond the virtual space and into the community.
🌱 WORLD IBD DAY IN THE COMMUNITY
On May 19, Connecting Pieces visited Manchester High School in Manchester, New Hampshire for an interactive World IBD Day educational event focused on gut health, wellness, and reducing stigma through conversation.
Students participated in hands-on activities designed to make learning both engaging and meaningful. Together, we explored:
🌿 Gut health and digestion
💧 The importance of hydration
🌱 Growing our own food
🧠 Myth-busting common misconceptions surrounding digestive health and chronic illness
Through open discussion and interactive learning, students were encouraged to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and better understand how everyday choices can support overall wellness.
As part of the experience, students planted their own food and discussed the connection between nutrition, self-care, and healthy habits heading into the summer months.
Events like these remind us that education is one of the most powerful tools we have for creating understanding, confidence, and healthier communities.
🌿 NOURISH & FLOURISH
May 20 @ 6:30PM EST
In recognition of both World IBD Day and Mother's Day, we welcomed Chef Lauren and her daughter, Cory, for a heartfelt conversation about food, family, and living with a gastrointestinal condition.
As a personal chef and entrepreneur, Chef Lauren shared her journey navigating GERD while balancing the demands of running a business, raising a family, and caring for her own health.
Alongside stories of safe foods, favorite family meals, and life as a chef, Cory shared her favorite foods, artwork, and what she loves most about spending time in the kitchen with her mom.
Connect with Chef Lauren
Instagram: @fiddleheadchef
Website: Fiddlehead Chef
📦 SOME OF MAY HAPPENED QUIETLY
Some of May looked like:
packing supplies
responding to patient requests
sorting donations
creating educational materials
preparing emergency ostomy kits
building partnerships
While these moments rarely make the spotlight, they remain an important part of the work happening every day.
WHAT'S AHEAD
June 6
Take Steps New England Walk
Connecting Pieces is honored to participate through our Ostomy Confidence Corner and educational activities designed to encourage conversation, confidence, and community engagement.
We're looking forward to connecting with families, patients, caregivers, and advocates throughout the event.
🎨 June Healing Arts
June 30 @ 6:30 PM EST
Join us for another opportunity to slow down, create, and connect through guided artistic expression.
July 13 - Pelvic Floor Yoga Returns
Pelvic Floor Yoga
Sessions will be recorded and available to registered participants through our private YouTube library.
October 10
Wellness Wears Confidence Fashion Show
Planning continues as we prepare for an evening centered on confidence, storytelling, and community.
FOLLOW ALONG
Facebook: Connecting Pieces
Instagram: @ConnectingPcs
YouTube: ConnectingPcs
Thank You
May reminded us that meaningful change is often built through ordinary moments.
A conversation.
A shared experience.
A helping hand.
Thank you for continuing to grow alongside us. Whether you attended a session, shared a post, donated supplies, volunteered your time, or simply checked in, we appreciate your support.
With care,
The Connecting Pieces Team
