I'm honored to be recognized by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at this year's event celebrating outstanding professionals in our community. Accepting this distinction comes with a commitment I'm proud to make: raising money to help the Foundation pursue its mission of curing cystic fibrosis and giving everyone with CF the chance to lead a long, fulfilling life.
 

This cause runs in my family. My sister has been part of the CF Foundation community for more than eight years, first as an honoree herself, then as a member of the board of directors, chair and volunteer on the Brewer's Ball committee, and eventually as Director of Development for the Virginia chapter. I've watched firsthand how much heart goes into this work, and how much progress this community has made. Getting to step into that tradition means a lot to me.
 

I've always believed in showing up for the community I live in, especially when it's for a good cause. This is one of the best there is.
 

Nearly 40,000 people in the United States have cystic fibrosis, a progressive genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Sixty years ago, children with CF usually did not live long enough to attend elementary school. Today, because of Foundation-supported research and care, the median survival age of people with CF is over 50. Yet many people with CF still do not benefit from existing therapies. The vision is a cure for every person with cystic fibrosis, a life free from the burden of this disease, and no one left behind.
 

Please consider making a donation to help me reach my fundraising goal. By supporting this effort, you have the chance, in your lifetime, to be part of ending this disease.
 

To learn more about CF and the CF Foundation, visit www.cff.org. Thank you for your support!