The Short Bowel Syndrome Foundation, Inc. (SBSF) is a 501(c) (3) Public Charity that was established in December of 2010 to help advocate, support, and educate the patients, care givers, and health care providers in Gastroenterology about the rare condition Short Bowel Syndrome. In the 2 ½ years they have been established, SBSF has given out $6000 in patient support funding, and plan to give out another $3500 by 2013 years end. Andrew Jablonski is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Short Bowel Syndrome Foundation, Inc.
How did you get started in the business? – My business is unique in itself because I was born into the business 26 years ago, since I have Short Bowel Syndrome. When you live with an “invisible” illness, and one that is rare at that, you are your own advocate in the healthcare system. I wanted to change that by advocating for others in similar situations because I know the emotional and financial help they need. After a series of interviews with medical companies who wanted to learn more, I made the decision to start SBSF.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – Nonprofit organizations can and do make a profit, but it must be used solely for the operation of the organization or, in the case of a foundation, granted to other nonprofit organizations. Any money we make first goes to our patient population through our Patient Assistance Program and the rest covers our expenses. We rely solely on donors and contributions and do not always have a steady stream of income. This poses a unique challenge which can be very difficult at times. That is why it is important to support the causes you’re passionate about!
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – In October 2012, I became involved with NPS Pharmaceuticals, a New Jersey based Pharmaceutical that created a drug called GATTEX® exclusively for SBS Patients. The Foundation, along with other industry leaders, and organizations collaborated to help get FDA Approval for the drug. In December of 2012 GATTEX® was approved for patient use, for 18+ and those who are on Intravenous Nutrition Support. I was featured on the front page of the business section of the New York Times in January for my work with NPS and the FDA.
What are you the most proud of? – Graduating college and getting a degree. My family was told this would never happen, or it would be extremely difficult. If you put your mind to it, anything is possible!
Tell me a little about your family. – My dad is a Dual Board Certified Medical Physicist and owns a consulting company Jablonski Physics Services, where I do part time work for him once to twice a week, in addition to my Foundation and DJ jobs. My Mom is an accountant and both are avid golfers. I have a younger brother named John who attends UNL and works at the Highlands Golf Course here in Lincoln. We also have two dogs, Molly and Max, both Wheaten Terriers.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know? – One would never think by looking at me that I eat about 5,000-6,000 calories a day and that I do go to a gym on a regular basis. If ONLY I could get paid to eat….I would probably rank up there with Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and Warren Buffett financially. It may not look like it, but this guy can eat!
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – 1-888-740-1666 ext. 1, ajablonski@shortbowelfoundation.org, www.shortbowelfoundation.org, or www.Facebook.com/SBSFoundation.