The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was founded in 1955 by a group of concerned parents seeking to raise awareness and save the lives of their children affected by what is now known as CF. They were motivated by loss, and seeking to advocate. Before the 1980's, many parents of CF babies born were told to love their babies but that they probably wouldn't survive into the high school years. Life expectancy was low. In 1989, with the help of scientists supported by the foundation, they identified the gene responsible for CF... a huge breakthrough! Since then, life expectancy is rising due to increased quality of medical care and available medications to help those living with CF.

Great Strides is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's biggest annual fundraising event, and the money raised from it goes to support the foundation's mission of finding a CURE!

As a family, we understand the importance of advocating for this cause while also remaining respectful of Brycen's medical history. We walk to support the CF community and those who walked before us in desperate search for answers to save their children and for those who helped pave the way so that our child and others with CF can thrive. Because of these efforts, and Brycen's understanding of what needs to be done to keep his body healthy, he is doing very well and we are hopeful for his future and all that he will accomplish!