Our Story

Connecting Pieces is built on resilience, love, and gratitude. It started with a fashion show fundraiser Keyla, our founder put together, not realizing it would spark something much bigger. That event showed her the power of community and how, when we come together, we can change lives. “As an ostomy patient and mom raising a son with gastrointestinal challenges, I know how overwhelming the journey can feel. I wanted to create a space where others could feel seen, supported, and understood.”

That vision grew stronger when Keyla teamed up with Kim and Dan. Kim, a colorectal cancer survivor and colostomate living with ischemic colitis, and Dan, who has ulcerative colitis, both share a passion for helping others and improving the future for our communities. Today, Connecting Pieces offers resources, emotional support, and life-saving supplies. We’re endlessly grateful for everyone who’s joined us on this journey. Together, we’re building something truly special.

Meet the Team

  • Keyla Ire

    CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER-FOUNDER

    Welcome to Connecting Pieces. Hi, I’m Keyla—a mom, advocate, and ostomy patient. My journey with Inflammatory Bowel Disease along with raising a son facing similar health challenges, showed me just how isolating and overwhelming life can feel without the right support. I wanted to change that.

    What started as a charity fashion show turned into Connecting Pieces—a place where people can find resources, connection, and hope. It’s all about community, showing up for each other, and making sure no one has to face these challenges alone.

    I’m deeply thankful for the community we’ve built and the chance to keep growing together.

  • Daniel Swanbeck

    CO-FOUNDER-BOARD MEMBER

    Dan's life took an unexpected turn in 2011 when he was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. Despite the new challenges, he persisted as a professional race car driver, achieving wins and success, proving that he could still perform in the highest levels of motorsport. Using his platform, Dan advocated for the IBD community, engaging in various initiatives from charity events to supporting patients directly, culminating in the creation of his own support community.

    In this journey, he crossed paths with Keyla, and together, they embarked on a mission to make a difference for those affected by IBD. Their partnership signifies a shared commitment to effecting meaningful change. Dan's story embodies resilience and determination, inspiring others to confront adversity with courage and purpose. As he continues to race against Ulcerative Colitis, Dan's journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of unwavering advocacy.

  • Kimberly Coleman

    CO-FOUNDER-BOARD MEMBER

    After being diagnosed with Stage 2 Colorectal Cancer on July 24, 2015, Kimberly Holiday-Coleman, her hubby of 24 years, and their children realized life as they once knew it, would change, but had no idea how immeasurable that change would be.

    Since her diagnosis, cancer treatments, and ostomy placement surgery eight years ago, Kimberly has embraced her second chance at life. She became a published author, inspirational speaker, community advocacy award recipient, Fight Colorectal Cancer Ambassador, modeled in Melbourne Fashion Week, International Burlesque performer, and traveled solo internationally.

  • Cecilia Lynn NP

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Krista Durant

    CLERK/SECRETARY

    For the past 12 years, Krista’s life was intertwined with the challenges of Crohn’s Disease. Overcoming the relience on steroids and medications, she embraced a hollistic approach where she found the benefits and her passion in Seamoss Gel. Leading to her ventured enterpreneurship, founding an award-winning and BBB accredited Sea Moss Gel business. The initiative was born out of personal triumphs, and it has become a source of wellness and empowerment for many.

    Advocacy became a cental part of Krista’s journey. Being a voice for those facing chronic GI conditions, especially for communities underrepresented, has become a personal calling. As the Secretary of Connecting Pieces, a position bestowed upon me by our founder, I continue to empathize with individuals facing challenges similar to mine with Crohn’s and other GI diseases. This role allows me to support ostomy patients and contribute to a cause close to my heart.

  • Lilyvette Chavez

    BOOKKEEPER

  • Misareilys Carrasquillo

    EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

  • Nicole Jones

    EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

  • Ashley Sara

    SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER