Nicole Moran
Rachel, my life-long bestie and the mother of my nephew, Nate, asked me if I wanted to go on a hike this year to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. At the time I didn't realize what I was signing up for (25 miles in one day...eeek!), but it doesn't matter... I'd do anything to raise money for this foundation. I feel like it's the least I can do. And here's why...
When my nephew Nate was born there was never a doubt in my mind that he was going to live a wonderful and full-filling life, even after learning of his cystic fibrosis diagnosis. To be honest, I just couldn’t imagine his life any other way. I never doubted that his parents would provide him with the best childhood and raise him with every opportunity to lead a healthy and happy life, no matter what challenges he faced. And knowing that, I remained hopeful that he would do ok until there was a cure. I mean, there’s no way CF could get the best of my nephew. Baby Nate was just too darn cute!
Since Nate's birth, I have seen the advancements in treatments to fight the disease. As I anticipated, his parents’ devotion to his health has been unrelenting, and Nate has received top-notch care from an amazing team of health care providers. I have learned (namely through Rachel) how the development of new lines of medications has significantly improved the mortality rate and life expectancy of those with CF. And because of all these improvements, Nate is living the life that everyone has envisioned for him. He is a BEAST when it comes to fighting this disease! The sky is the limit for this kid who is funny and kind and beyond lovable. He’s well-rounded and when it comes to sports and other activities, nothing stops him. He’s my “natural little flag grabber” because when it comes to flag football, he’s the GOAT! But when I think of Nate, the first thing that comes to mind is his mischievous little smile that absolutely melts my heart. And, did I mention how cute he is?
Without exaggeration, the research that has led to these disease fighting advancements would not have been possible without funding from the CFF. Although I am forever grateful for all of these new treatments, it’s not as if they don’t come at a price. Medications still have to be taken, and they come with side effects (significant ones). Treatments that are time-consuming and uncomfortable need to be endured. And patients still get sick. And hospitalizations still occur. And, in my opinion, it’s still too much for any one individual to have to battle through, let alone a child.
This is why I fundraise for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This is why I will continue to fundraise until there’s a CURE! Not just for my nephew, but for all of those affected by CF. And based upon what I have seen over the years, I am confident that the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will continue to fight, develop new treatments, and find the CURE for cystic fibrosis!
Nate deserves a cure... he's just so darn cute!
Will you help us end cystic fibrosis?
By donating to my fundraising goal, you have the power to advance the research and science needed to drive our shared dream forward – a cure for everyone with CF.
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