It’s hard to believe it has been 20 years since I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that devastates my lungs, pancreas and other vital organs. I’ve had my share of ups and downs – nasty infections, sinus surgeries and hospitalizations – over the last two decades.  

But all of that changed because of Trikafta, an incredible, lifesaving medication that I’ve been taking since February 2021. Because of these little miracle pills the size of my pinky fingernail, I’m the healthiest I’ve ever been. I’m able to work full-time at a career I love, travel, spend time with friends and family, cheer on my beloved Columbus Blue Jackets, and so much more that 13-year-old me didn’t even know was possible.

Trikafta has undoubtedly changed my life in big ways, but it’s the changes that others can’t see that have been the most impactful. I no longer have a chronic cough. I can walk up a flight of stairs without coughing. I walk and play with my energetic dog, Riley. 

And all of that is possible because of the tireless fundraising and research done by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to make Trikafta possible. 

But there are still CF patients out there who don’t qualify for Trikafta, and there is currently no cure for CF. While progress has been made, a long road lies ahead for far too many people fighting this terrible disease. We need a cure so that everyone with CF has a better chance to live a long, healthy life.

I’m walking to help change that reality.

By donating to my fundraising goal or walking with us, you have the power to advance the research and science needed to drive our shared dream forward – a cure for everyone with CF.

Our team has set a goal of raising $10,000. My parents, Jeff and Bonnie DeVito, will match each donation up to $10,000 so that we can hopefully raise $20,000 in honor of my 20th anniversary.