When Nate was born with meconium ileus, we had no idea the journey ahead. That early complication led to a diagnosis we never expected: cystic fibrosis. From the very beginning, Nate showed us what strength looks like.

Now, at just one year old, Nate lives with CF like it’s second nature. He takes his meds like it’s part of the routine. He falls asleep peacefully during chest therapy. He doesn’t just cope—he thrives. His strength, his spirit, and his resilience amaze us every single day.

Nate has two CF mutations: F508del and W1089X. But those letters don’t define him. He is so much more than a diagnosis.

He’s always on the move—playing, laughing, climbing, exploring. He loves being outside, digging in the sand, watching animals, and making new friends. He’s social, curious, and full of life. He handles every treatment, every challenge, with a toughness that’s beyond his years. His pain tolerance is incredibly high, but his joy is even higher.

We walk in the Great Strides event because we believe in a future where CF doesn’t limit our children. We walk for Nate—to honor his fight, his joy, and his endless strength. Every step we take is for him, and for everyone else living with cystic fibrosis.

Nate is already taking great strides. And we’ll keep walking beside him—until there’s a cure.