Lauren Bruno has been living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) for 13 years. From ages 8 to 11, Lauren's IBD went undiagnosed; the disease depleted her health to the point of threatening her life before she received proper medical care.
Empowered after overcoming emotional and physical trauma at such a young age, Lauren continues to succeed, now both as a singer-songwriter and as an advocate for those living with IBD.
About Lauren
Passionate about music since her childhood, Lauren is inspired by many different bands, especially the Beatles, and has attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. In addition, Lauren has testified before the Massachusetts State Assembly in support of her friend and fellow advocate Ally Bain’s efforts to pass Ally’s Law, a law requiring businesses to make employee-only restrooms available to people with IBD and other medical conditions.
Lauren's two vocations came together when she met Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready at a benefit concert. She was so inspired that she began composing as soon as she got home. That very night she wrote “Red Balloon,” drawing upon her past fears and experiences with IBD, and hoping to let others like her know that they aren't alone. Mike was so moved by the song and Lauren's efforts that he decided to perform “Red Balloon” with her.
