I hike for Aly, Maddie, and Killian—the three incredible O’Reilly siblings I met back in 2003 as a teacher in their elementary school and later as a family friend. I have witnessed their strength through countless hospital stays, breathing treatments, and the daily challenges that come with cystic fibrosis. In 2017, when Xtreme Hike was introduced to me, I knew I had to take action. Since then, I’ve seen medical breakthroughs bring hope to the O’Reilly family, and my “Why” has grown to include Charlotte, Caden, and so many others.

I hike to raise awareness. I hike to support families. I hike because we need a cure.

There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, and too many people with CF die far too young. CF is a genetic, life-shortening disease that devastates the lungs, pancreas, and other vital organs. It makes breathing difficult, increases the risk of life-threatening infections, and often leads to extensive lung damage and respiratory failure. Every person with CF faces a unique and difficult journey—and while progress has been made, a long road lies ahead.

I hike so that every person living with CF has a better chance at a long, healthy life.

Will you help us end cystic fibrosis? By supporting my fundraising goal, you can help advance the research and science needed to bring us closer to what we all dream of: a cure for everyone with CF.