Hello friends and family,

It’s hard to put into words just how far Tess has come since her diagnosis with cystic fibrosis at 14 months old. Over the years, we’ve shared the highs and the hard moments, and through it all, your support has been a constant source of strength. Because of continued CF research (and your generosity), Tess is doing incredibly well today, thanks to the medication Trikafta, which she began nearly seven years ago.

Tess has truly been thriving. She’s working as a public health educator in cancer services and is now pursuing her Master’s in public health. She’s been traveling, too! Exploring Portugal last year and planning a trip to Ireland this year. She stays active, going to the gym several times a week, and is in a golf league. She also loves spending time with her friends and boyfriend. Seven years ago, before Trikafta, this kind of life felt uncertain, as we were facing the possibility of a lung transplant. We still have to visit the lung transplant center once a year for a check-in, and several doctor visits locally. In August, she will turn 26 and learn to navigate new health insurance… which feels scary. While she still keeps up with her daily treatments and airway clearance, she handles it all with strength and determination, never letting it define her.

Trikafta has been life-changing for Tess, and it exists because of research funded by people like you over all these years. At the same time, we’re reminded that about 10% of those with CF don’t benefit from this drug. The good news is that new clinical trials are underway, bringing hope for therapies that could help everyone living with this disease. That’s why we continue to raise money at the grassroots level - because it truly makes a difference, and Tess is living proof of that.

We are endlessly grateful for your continued support, and we hope you’ll stay in this fight with us until there is a cure for everyone. We’d love for you to join Team Tess on May 30th for the Great Strides Walk at Willow Bay in Onondaga Lake Park (9:00 AM check-in, 10:00 AM start). You can also support by scanning the QR code below to donate to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation through Team Tess.

With heartfelt thanks, always. 💙

The Michaels Family