Our family’s journey with CF began when Navy, my sister’s daughter, was flagged at her newborn screening. After months of testing and uncertainty, she was diagnosed with CF. Thanks to daily treatments and the groundbreaking medication, Trikafta, Navy has thrived. Now, at 3 years old, she’s a joyful and energetic little girl, full of laughter, love, and an infectious smile.

When Brent and I found out we were expecting Cecelia, we underwent genetic testing, and it was confirmed that we were both carriers of the CF gene. It was a tough moment when we learned our baby had a 25% chance of being born with CF. Just two weeks before Cecelia was born, we received the confirmation that she would have CF. While it was heartbreaking, I found strength in Navy’s journey, knowing that with love, care, and hope, Cecelia could thrive too.

Like Navy, Cecelia started her daily treatments early—salt to help prevent dehydration, Albuterol, chest physiotherapy, and nebulizer treatments. At just one year old, she began Pulmozyme and was fitted for a vest. Though each day brings its challenges, I’m proud to say Cecelia is thriving. We remain hopeful that she, like Navy, will one day benefit from Trikafta.

I’m walking to raise awareness and funds for CF research because our fight isn’t just for Navy and Cecelia—it’s for the 40,000 people in the U.S. living with CF. Every dollar raised helps fund critical research into better treatments and, ultimately, a cure. These funds support efforts in genetic therapies, lung health, nutrition, and the many challenges of CF care—especially for adults.

I invite you to join us in this fight. Every contribution, no matter the amount, brings hope for a healthier future for Navy, Cecelia, and the thousands of others affected by CF. Your generosity is invaluable to us—and to the families who are also dreaming of a cure.

Please consider donating through the link below. If you're able, join us at the Cleveland Great Strides Walk for a Cure on May 17, 2025, at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope, healing, and a cure to families like ours.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support!