I’m honored to be participating in this year’s Pittsburgh's 50 Finest fundraising campaign for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation! Through this effort, I’ve committed to raising money to support critical research, care, and advocacy for those living with cystic fibrosis. I have been surprised to learn how many people in my life know someone impacted by this disease.

Whenever I discuss this campaign with people in my network, I've found that almost everyone has a personal connection to CF. 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. Working alongside the CF community, the CF Foundation has fostered the development of more than a dozen CF treatments and helped add decades of life for people with CF. 

As I've learned more about the impact this disease, I'm more motivated than ever to ensure every person with CF has the opportunity to live a long, healthy life. I’m grateful for any support with my campaign - whether through a donation or simply helping spread awareness. Thank you for being part of this mission with me! :)