

My Great Strides Story
Fundraising for Columbia Great Strides 2026
Janessa Axelsen
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system, making it difficult to breathe and properly absorb nutrients.
My now 8 (and a half y/o— she’d be sure to let you know) niece was born with CF. It was a scary start, but she and her parents have worked so hard every day for her health. Because of ongoing research and medical advancements (MOSTLY possible with events LIKE this) she is able to take fewer medications than before. Even so, she still does two breathing treatments a day and works hard for a health that is so freely given to many children.
These kind of fundraisers are so important for the future of Stella's life and many children like her who are still waiting for treatments and medications that can help them.
We continue to fundraise in hopes that a cure will be found within her lifetime. With your support, we can move closer to a brighter, healthier future for her and for every child living with cystic fibrosis.







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