MISSOULA - Rachel Markovich, of Missoula, is launching a new non-profit organization. Named VEO Guardians, this charitable initiative comes as a response to the pressing need for assistance for families grappling with Very Early Onset Inflammatory Bowel Disease (VEO-IBD). The organization aims to aid families in securing immediate medical treatment by covering costs upfront, as they deal with the challenging process of ongoing insurance denials and appeals.

VEO Guardians was founded by parents who have experienced firsthand the complexities and struggles associated with securing timely and appropriate medical care for children undergoing treatment for VEO-IBD.

Markovich’s son, now 3 years old, was diagnosed with VEO-IBD at 22 months. After enduring symptoms since nine months old, they spent more than a year searching for a diagnosis. Following an ER visit due to a high fever, suspected bowel perforation and emergency surgery they met with a pediatric GI specialist, underwent a grueling day of preparation for a colonoscopy and endoscopy and ultimately received a VEO IBD UC diagnosis. Following were numerous medical procedures and a stay at Seattle Children's Hospital.

Markovich’s son has not required hospitalization for the past year, prompting her to seek change for families facing similar challenges. “This grace of my son’s health has led me to want to change the future for children and families in similar circumstances,” said Markovich. “Instead of the endless hours families face trying to get insurance approval for medication, our charity will pay upfront for their child to receive treatment immediately.”

Throughout this journey, Markovich connected with other Montana families who were confronting similar challenging circumstances. Among them were:

Lindsay Warner, Whitefish, MT
Kelly King, Hamilton, MT
United by their shared experiences, they collectively dedicated themselves to supporting others facing similar trials.

"Every child deserves access to timely treatment and compassionate support," said Markovich. "Through our organization, we aim to alleviate the burden of medical costs and lengthy timelines so that children facing VEO-IBD can access the care they need immediately to thrive."

VEO Guardians will work closely with Pediatric GI Specialists to facilitate communication and support between patients and the organization through the VEO-IBD diagnosis and treatment process. By providing assistance with navigating insurance appeals and denials, VEO Guardians seeks to ensure that children receive the vital biologics and infusions necessary for their treatment without unnecessary delays.

A launch celebration and fundraising event will be held April 5th at the Wilma Theater in Missoula. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit https://www.veoguardians.com.