Jessica Jordan

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects mostly the lungs, but also the pancreas, liver, kidneys, and intestines.  The disease affects each person in a different way.  Some may have very few lung problems but be riddled with GI issues, while others will have chronic lung infections and no trouble maintaining weight.  It is one of the most common, chronic, fatal lung diseases in children and young adults.  There are approximately 30,000 Americans living with cystic fibrosis (70,000 worldwide). Although 50% of CF patients are over the age of 18 only 5% are over the age of 40.  Every year we lose far too many young ones.  It is a progressive, life-threatening and life-shortening genetic disorder.  It has no cure.  This is why we walk, why we raise funds, why we fight for our loved ones. 

To look at my daughter, Bella, you would never know that she has CF.  That she is fighting a war raging inside her body.  Bella is more susceptible to infections than other children.  Each infection can scar the lungs and make fighting to breathe even more difficult.  Every day she does her treatments, and takes her medication to fight to stay healthy.  She is the strongest, bravest person I know.  Never complains, always with a smile.  She is our Warrior! 

 Great Strides is a national walk that raises funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis.  It is our major fundraiser.  Cystic fibrosis receives no help from government agencies.  All research funding, patient assistant programs, etc, are funded by private donations only.  And donations are tax deductible! ;)  Real progress has been made in the search for a cure.  Research has led to new medications that further help our loved ones, but there is still no cure for this devastating disease.  We will continue to fight for all families affected by this disease until a cure is found. 

We are walking to help add tomorrows to their lives.  Will you join me and Bella's Brigade by walking and/or making a donation to our Great Strides fundraising compaign today? We would love to have you walk with us! 

Please help make CF stand for Cure Found!