Thanks to the state funded newborn screening we were informed of her genetic mutation within weeks of Tessa being born. Tessa was steadily losing weight at this point and I truly believe this early diagnosis saved her life. 

Tessa is blessed to have been born the year it was announced that Trikafta would be an option at 2 years old but every person born with cystic fibrosis is on a unique journey and experiences this challenging disorder differently. While progress has been made, a long road lies ahead for far too many people who aren’t eligible for modulators such as Trikafta. We need a cure so that everyone with CF has a better chance to live a long, healthy life.

We were immediately embraced by the Madigan Army Medical Center’s Pediatric Specialty Clinic Pulmonology team. The team provided education, medications, and therapies while always prioritizing routines that could be incorporated into our daily lives as an active duty military family. 

Thanks to the research CFF continues to fund, our precious Tessa Jade’s health is thriving. Tessa enjoys dance, gymnastics and soccer! Shout out to her daycare - Our Place to Grow, for helping us provide daily nebulizer treatments and never missing a medication.

Tessa loves bubbles & singing- both of which we continue to encourage to keep her lungs strong and healthy! 

Please join Team Tessa - powered by bubbles and tunes at the CFF Great Strides Walk in Seattle, WA  on Sunday, May 17 (https://fundraise.cff.org/Seattle2026) or show your support by donating (blue button above).

You have the power to advance the research and science needed to drive our shared dream forward – a cure for everyone with CF.