I’m honored to share that I’ve been selected as a Young STANDOUT Honoree for the Triangle Class of 2025! STANDOUT is a leadership and development program of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation that recognizes young individuals who are already making an impact — and who are ready to take their advocacy and leadership to the next level.
 

As someone who’s been involved in the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation since 2011 as a small child, this is a huge honor to be part of this program and the opportunity to fundraise and spread the CFF mission in an even larger way.  In 2013, I was initiallly inspired by my friend, Skylar Davis, who has CF. She introduced me to the CFF mission which then inspired me to also begin fundraising in other unique ways to help find a cure throughout my younger years.  Through my involvement in starting the Small Hands Big Hearts Flip Out for Skylar Compassion Mission and volunteering and walking at the annual Great Strides Walk, I have been able to continue spreading the CFF mission and recruit others to do so over the course of 12 years. 
 

The CFF STANDOUT leadership program is the next step in my journey to help find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.  I will of course continue to lead the SHBHU Flip Out for Skylar mission year round and also volunteer and walk each year at the Great Strides walk as a member ot Team Skylar's Striders. However, this opportunity is a chance to build new connections, grow my leadership skills, and continue raising awareness and funds for the very important cause: fighting Cystic Fibrosis. This year, our 2025 STANDOUT class is raising funds specifically in honor of Harper, a young girl in our community living with CF. 
 

For those of you who don't already know, CF is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time. A defective gene leads to a buildup of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and other organs — causing repeated infections, hospital stays, and serious health challenges. But thanks to the work of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, incredible progress is being made.Their efforts have helped develop groundbreaking treatments and extend the lives of those with CF — but we’re not done yet. Many still don’t benefit from these therapies, and we need to keep pushing forward.

I would be so grateful for your support in and or all of the following three ways:
 

1. Make a donation – Every dollar helps fund CF research, care, and the search for a cure.

2. Join me at the STANDOUT Gala on Friday, November 14 at MacGregor Downs Country Club. Tickets are $150 and include dinner, drinks, and entertainment — all for an incredible mission.
3. Spread the word – Share my fundraising page with friends and family to help raise awareness and support.
 

Thank you for standing with me and the CF community. Together, we can keep making a difference.To learn more about cystic fibrosis and the Foundation’s work, visit www.cff.org.
 

Sincerely,

Mia Pease