Amanda Merrill

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time.  It also can affect the way the body absorbs essential nutrients.  People who have CF have defective genes that cause a build up of thick mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs.  Cystic fibrosis is a rare disease as only 30,000 people in the US are affected and only 70,000 worldwide. 

Our son, Colin, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis only 9 days after being born.  This diagnosis came as a complete shock to our family.  We experienced an array of emotions as we traveled to and from CHOP after his diagnosis but we are determined to provide Colin with everything he needs to stay healthy.  Colin’s day consists of medications prior to eating and chest physiotherapy at least twice a day to help prevent mucus from sitting idle in his lungs; four times a day when he is sick. Colin truly has amazed us with his strength and his fighting spirit– he is our SUPERMAN.  We have and will continue to fight for a cure. We will not slow down until CF no longer means cystic fibrosis.  We will fight until CF stands for CURE FOUND. 

Please consider joining our team and walking with us to find a cure for our son.  If you are unable to walk, please consider making a donation. Every donation helps researchers develop breakthrough therapies and medications that will help people with CF live longer and breathe easier. 

We appreciate all your love and support.  Together, we will find a cure!