Sadie's Soldiers

Hi Everyone,

Wow what a year 2020 has been so far! With everything cancelled, wearing masks, staying at home, online shopping, virtual and hybrid schooling, this is all new to everyone. Not sure when and how we will be when our everyday living will be “normal” again.

I wanted to send out an update about our fundraising efforts this year. Since the Great Strides Walk was held virtually, I was holding out to have an actual Cystic Fibrosis Cycle for Life ride and fundraise for my Dad, Shane, to be held in September, but that didn’t happen either. I did, however, fundraise for Cycle for Life and congratulations to all we raised over $17,000. I want to thank everyone who made a donation and to my dad’s friend, Jon Stunja for hosting his golf outing this year to help us reach our goal this year.

Your generous donations and support have provided monies for research for the latest new drug, Trikafta. Last Thanksgiving Day I received this drug. This is the new drug that everyone has been waiting for. This is the first triple combination CFTR modulator therapy for Cystic Fibrosis. It was approved for all individuals with CF, 12 years or older, who have at least one copy of F508del mutation, thereby providing a therapy to nearly 90% of those with CF. I have two copies of F508del. I take two pills in the morning and one in the evening – 12 hours apart.

This new drug has made a significant change in my life. I feel terrific and my lung function has been the best ever and my overall health has been excellent even during these trying times of Covid. During the lockdown in the spring, I did online school, it was difficult as I missed seeing my friends and grandparents. I did Zoom calls so I could see everyone, but it was just not the same. I have my own circle of friends who I feel safe with, but still watch when I go out because Covid can be dangerous for me. I’m still doing online school, while my brother, Oliver, goes two days a week in school and online three days. I can’t wait to get back to normal and be with my friends.

I look forward to hearing or seeing you during the coming year. I understand that this has been a difficult year for many people this year and we totally understand. Remember that donations can be made throughout the year and sent to my Mimi for Sadie’s Soldier’s Great Strides Team for this year – 505 Wedgewood Court, Harmony, PA 16037.

Again, my deepest THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. Keep watching for my letter in the spring.

Lots of Love and Kisses Always,

Sadie, Shane, Abby & Oliver

Thank you for supporting Sadie and her Sadie’s Soldiers Great Strides fundraising for Cycle for Life. Stay safe and stay healthy.