I am being honored by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at the 65 Roses Gala as a 2024 Finest Honoree, recognizing outstanding professionals and businesses in my community. In accepting this distinction, I have committed to raising money to help the Foundation's mission to cure cystic fibrosis (CF) and to provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment, and ensuring access to high quality, specialized care.

I kindly invite you to contribute to my fundraising target to help achieve our shared goal. Your support can play a crucial role in eradicating this disease and making a lasting impact on medical advancements. Please consider joining our cause and helping us make history.

Almost 40,000 individuals in the United States are affected by cystic fibrosis, a severe genetic condition impacting crucial organs like the lungs and pancreas. In the past, children diagnosed with CF rarely survived long enough to attend elementary school, but thanks to research and care supported by foundations, the median survival age now exceeds 50 years! The CF Foundation, in collaboration with the CF community, facilitated the creation of over 12 treatments, significantly extending the lives of those with CF. However, there are still individuals with CF who do not have a cure for their specific genetic mutation. My personal goal is to shed light on the experiences of children and young adults living with CF, to raise awareness, and to provide education within the community. By utilizing the power of storytelling and offering support, I am encouraging each storyteller to make a heartfelt wish. Fulfilling a wish has the potential to ignite a sense of possibility and determination, empowering them to combat this challenging illness with renewed vigor. With your generous contribution, we aspire to make these wishes a reality!

To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org. Our vision is a cure for every person with cystic fibrosis – a life free from the burden of this disease – and ensuring NO ONE is left behind. Thank you for supporting the mission of the CF Foundation!
 

Cystic Fibrosis Patient Stories:
 

Cystic Fibrosis: Rena's Story

My children’s experiences being African American with cystic fibrosis motivated me to speak out and ignite change for families who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) in the CF community.

Cystic Fibrosis: Jessica’s Story
Jessica has lived with cystic fibrosis since she was a baby. The Cystic Fibrosis Center at CHOP prepared her to manage her disease as she transitioned to college.

Cystic Fibrosis: Lauren's Story
After years of being treated as an oddity, I want people to acknowledge that I am a Black girl with cystic fibrosis. I want my voice to be heard.

Cystic Fibrosis: Shane's Story