Diagnosis at 32 Leads Autumn to Find Hope in Great Strides

Unlike many living with cystic fibrosis, Autumn was diagnosed with CF later in life, at the age of 32. “Most people think of cystic fibrosis as only a childhood disease, but it’s not. It can be challenging at times.”

From taking handfuls of pills every day to following breathing treatments and lung clearance schedules, adapting to this new way of life was an adjustment for Autumn.

“I immediately got involved with Great Strides,” she said. “The Atlanta Chapter reached out and met with me within two months of my diagnosis. They gave me hope -- they told me about what drug developments were in the pipeline, and how I could connect with a community of support.”

Great Strides was Autumn’s first chance to meet a lot of other people who understood what she was going through. “I saw this as my opportunity to not only help support research and drug development, but to fight back against this disease.” Ever since her first walk, her team -- Autumn’s Amblers -- has been there for her every step of the way.

When she isn’t working full-time, Autumn enjoys teaching Pilates, cooking, practicing her golf game, and spending time with her husband, friends, and family -- including her rescue chocolate lab, Lexie. 

“I am fortunate to be taking a modulator that treats the underlying the cause of my CF based on my unique health status and provides me with a better quality of life. But these drugs aren’t for everyone, which is why it is so important to fundraise.”