For the past 20 years, I’ve taken part in the Great Strides Walk to raise money and awareness in the fight against Cystic Fibrosis. My connection to this cause is a little different from most. I don’t have CF myself, and I don’t have a child with CF—but both my husband, Sean, and I are carriers of the gene.

When I was pregnant with my daughter, Lola, over 20 years ago, I was told she had a 25% chance of being born with the disease. At the time, I didn’t know much about CF, but I began researching and was heartbroken to learn about the struggles families face and the reality that life expectancy was only about 35 years. I remember feeling terrified and overwhelmed, but I also prepared myself to raise a child who might live with this disease.

When Lola was born without CF, I felt an incredible sense of relief—and I made a promise: I would always do my part to support those who weren’t as fortunate. Pregnancy is such a vulnerable time, and I never forgot the fear and uncertainty of that experience.

Since then, I’ve proudly supported the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, and in those 20 years, I’ve seen remarkable progress—lifespans have increased, and treatments have improved tremendously. I hold onto the hope that one day, this disease will be eradicated in my lifetime.

Every year it feels a little harder to tell my story, but a promise is a promise. This cause remains close to my heart, and I hope you’ll consider supporting me once again. Thank you so much.