My very first Extreme Hike back in 2017 nearly broke me — finishing felt almost impossible. But I kept coming back. Since then, I’ve completed six Extreme Hikes, and along the way I’ve also run three half marathons. Looking back, I really believe that first hike was the spark that started my entire fitness and health journey. THANK YOU EXTREME HIKE!

What I didn’t expect was the community that would come with it. Over the years I’ve made incredible friends — including friends living w CF and family members of those living with CF. These relationships have become deeply meaningful to me, and they’ve changed WHY I hike. I don’t only hike for the excitement or the challenge anymore; I hike for the people I’ve met, the families I care about, and the real lives impacted by this disease.

This year is extra special because I get to share the trail with my daughter, Parker. She ran her first half marathon in Asheville at just 15, and now she’s ready to take on her first Extreme Hike. I’m so excited to share this experience with her. Together, we’re part of the team Dudes With Daughters — formerly known as the award-winning Dudes With Poles — and we’re lacing up for a cause that means everything: ending cystic fibrosis. #untilitsdone

There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, and too many people with CF die young. CF is a genetic, life-shortening disease that devastates the lungs, pancreas, and other vital organs. It makes it difficult to breathe and fight life-threatening infections, often leading to extensive lung damage and respiratory failure.

Every person born with cystic fibrosis is on a unique journey and experiences this challenging disease differently. 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 the chance to live a long, healthy life.

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

Will you help us end cystic fibrosis?