The Bone family's journey in raising awareness and funds for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation began over 25 years ago, inspired by personal experiences with these chronic illnesses. This year marked a special milestone: the 10th anniversary of “Team Kate,” named after Hal and Tracey Bone’s daughter, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at just five years old. In recognition of their dedicated supporters, the family decided to host a Farm to Table Dinner, transforming gratitude into a vibrant community celebration.
Hal Bone’s battle with Crohn’s disease began at the tender age of nine. The family's commitment intensified when Kate received her diagnosis, followed by the recent news that their youngest son, Owen, was also diagnosed. This family history has fueled their determination to find a cure, leading to the rebranding of “Team Kate” to “Team K.O.” — “Knock Out Crohn’s disease.” Their personal stakes are not just a family challenge; they symbolize the urgent need for awareness and funding.
At the heart of this event was an intimate gathering set in the picturesque Cedar Springs at Bone Hollow venue. Guests savored locally sourced cuisine while learning about the challenges of living with Crohn's and colitis. The atmosphere buzzed with a sense of community, as attendees connected through shared experiences and the common goal of supporting those affected by these diseases. Katherine Elizabeth Bone, now 15, shared her thoughts on the importance of family and community support, stating, “Growing up with Crohn’s Disease has been difficult, but my family’s encouragement and the community’s support give me hope.”
A standout feature of the evening was the culinary artistry of Chef Mariano Cebrián from Panoram Asados, an Argentinean culinary team known for their commitment to community-focused dining experiences. Hal and Tracey discovered Chef Cebrián at another Farm to Table event in Leiper’s Fork and were captivated by his approach to food as a means of bringing people together. His team prepared a spectacular menu highlighting local ingredients, showcasing the flavors of the region while fostering a sense of collaboration and fellowship among guests.
Looking ahead, the Bone family plans to expand the event’s reach, opening ticket sales to the public next year. They are continually improving the Cedar Springs venue to enhance guest experiences while ensuring that the mission of raising awareness and funds for Crohn’s and colitis remains at the forefront. Hal noted, “We want our guests to feel connected to each other, the farm, and the cause.”
Gratitude permeated the evening, with the Bone family acknowledging their supporters and partners, including local vendors like Demeter’s Common and Polly Sparrow Bakery, who played a significant role in the event's success. Feedback from attendees highlighted the event’s ability to unite the community around a vital cause. Many appreciated the opportunity to learn more about Crohn’s and colitis while enjoying an evening of delicious food and camaraderie. Remarkably, fundraising efforts saw a 25% increase this year, a testament to the event’s impact and the community's support.
The Bone family aims to spread awareness about these diseases and invite others affected to find solace in community connections. They encourage individuals to get involved through donations and by participating in local events, like the upcoming “Take Steps” walk in Nashville. As the Bone family reflects on their journey, they remain hopeful for a future where Crohn’s and colitis no longer dictate the lives of those affected.