My Great Strides Story
Mary Miller
Fundraising for Pittsburgh Great Strides 2026
Mary Miller
I want to share a story about my son, Conner, and the incredible impact that the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has had on our lives.
However, Conner is not the only child affected by this disease. There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis and too many people with CF die young. I’m walking to help change that reality. I'm walking to give my son and so many others, more tomorrows.
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.
Conner was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was only three weeks old. As a brand-new mother, I sobbed as I held my baby boy and was told that his life expectancy might only reach his mid-30s. However, thanks to the non-stop research and dedication of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Conner is not just surviving—he is thriving.
The treatments and medications developed through the foundation’s efforts have given him a true fighting chance. A major turning point occurred when Conner was 11 and started Trikafta, a life-changing medication developed by the CFF. Within less than a year of starting this treatment, he was able to eliminate two of his seven daily medications and no longer needed the four Pediasures he previously required just to maintain his weight. He has since seen a significant growth spurt and now maintains a very healthy height and weight.
I wanted to share how vital these medical advancements are for families like ours. Thank you for your continued support and for being part of the community that makes this progress possible.
However, Conner is not the only child affected by this disease. There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis and too many people with CF die young. I’m walking to help change that reality. I'm walking to give my son and so many others, more tomorrows.
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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