

My Great Strides Story
Fundraising for Leonardtown Great Strides 2026
Jessica Ruiz
I participate in Great Strides in honor of my grandson, Caleb. When he was diagnosed at just 3 weeks old, our world shifted in an instant. In that moment, I made a promise to him—a promise that I would keep showing up, keep walking, and keep fighting until a cure for cystic fibrosis is found!
This journey is deeply personal. Every step I take is for Caleb—for his future, for his strength, and for all the moments I dream of him experiencing. I walk because I want him to grow up without limits, to breathe easier, to chase his dreams, and to live a long, full, and healthy life.
Finding a cure isn’t just a hope—it’s a mission that lives in my heart every single day. Until that day comes, I will continue to stride, to advocate, and to stand alongside everyone fighting this disease. For Caleb, and for every family on this journey, I will never stop walking.
CF is a genetic, life-shortening disease that devastates the lungs, pancreas, and other vital organs. CF 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 a better chance to live a long, healthy life.
Will you help us end cystic fibrosis?
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.







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