Miles4Liam

Thanks for choosing to join our team MILES4LIAM and walk with us at the 2024 Great Strides in Austin, TX! 

This event is put on by the CF Foundation and registration via this website is required. This event is completely free, a donation is not required to attend.

The morning of the walk please remember to check in at the registration tent before finding our team tent. After checking in there, you can look for the tent with the sign that says “MILES4LIAM” Check in is at 9:30 and the walk will start at 10:30. The walk will be 1 loop around the concourse of the stadium. Every year is slightly different, but last year there were plenty of obstacles and prizes for kids to interact with and collect! At the end of the walk we will head back to the tent for a light lunch. We will take some team photos at the end too. 

Shirts for this years walk are available for purchase via Caitlin through April 17th. Shirts are $20 each and are available in Adult XS-3XL and Youth XS-XL. They are black with a purple design. The brand is Tultex 202 Fine Jersey T-shirt. Shirts are strongly encouraged but are not required to walk with our team. A portion of the proceeds from the shirt sales go the team MILES4LIAM through this site which is directly connected to the CF Foundation. Shirts will be handed out at the walk or mailed out the following Monday for those virtually walking. 

Please feel free to reach out to team leader Caitlin Thomasian at (928) 920-1216 for any additional questions and Venmo @MILES4LIAM for shirts. 

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. It leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus that can clog the airways and obstruct the pancreas, impairing both respiratory and digestive functions. CF patients often experience recurring lung infections, difficulty breathing, poor growth, and digestive issues. While there's no cure for CF, advancements in treatment have significantly improved the quality of life and life expectancy for many individuals with the condition.

Diagnosis and Preparation

Liam's journey with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) began at a remarkably young age, with his diagnosis occurring just 8 days after his birth. The discovery stemmed from an abnormal anatomy scan ultrasound during the 24th week of pregnancy. What ensued was a flurry of appointments for genetic counseling and extensive research, all in preparation for the daunting battle ahead.

Daily Struggles and Maintenance

Now at 7 years old, Liam appears healthy, but his well-being hinges on a meticulous regimen of multiple medications each day. Additionally, he has undergone countless hours of breathing treatments throughout his life, all aimed at maintaining the best possible health despite the challenges posed by CF.

Impact of CF Foundation and Ongoing Challenges

The CF Foundation has played a crucial role in Liam's journey, funding numerous research studies that have yielded life-saving medications for individuals grappling with CF. Despite these advancements, a segment of the CF population, including Liam, remains ineligible for these medications due to certain limitations.

Hope for the Future

Liam's story underscores both the progress made in CF treatment and the ongoing need for further research and support to ensure that every individual affected by this condition receives the care they require. Through continued efforts, it's hoped that one day, all individuals living with CF, regardless of their specific circumstances, will have access to the treatments they need to thrive.