When I was 20 weeks pregnant, we received news that would change our lives forever. Through an amniocentesis, we learned that our daughter, Skylar, had cystic fibrosis. I am a known carrier, and Skylar inherited the double Delta F508 variant, the most common mutation that causes this disease.

Cystic fibrosis is a rare genetic condition that affects only about 70,000 people worldwide. Because it is considered a "dwarf disease," it doesn't receive the widespread funding that many other conditions do. Progress in treatment has only happened because families and communities have fought for it through grassroots fundraising, research support, and relentless advocacy.

Skylar is now 11 years old and in 4th grade. If you met her, you'd see a creative, joyful kid who loves crafting and art, horseback riding, swimming, spending time with friends, and going on family vacations. She is curious, funny, and full of life.

One of the most magical moments of her life happened when she became a Make-A-Wish recipient. Our family traveled to Dollywood, where Skylar had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet Dolly Parton. It was an unforgettable experience for all of us and a reminder of how powerful kindness and community support can be.

But behind the joyful moments is a lifelong fight. Cystic fibrosis affects the lungs, digestion, and many other parts of the body. While treatments have advanced tremendously over the last decade, there is still no cure. Families like ours continue to raise funds so that research can move forward and so children like Skylar can grow up with the same freedom, health, and life expectancy as anyone else.

That's why we participate in Great Strides, the largest national fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Every dollar raised helps fund research, treatments, and the hope that one day there will be a cure.

If Skylar's story moves you, please consider supporting our Great Strides fundraiser. Your donation-big or small-helps push research forward and brings us closer to a world where cystic fibrosis no longer defines a child's future.

We walk for Skylar.

We walk for every child and family fighting cystic fibrosis.

And we walk because hope is built step by step.

Thank you for being part of that hope.