Brenda Jackson

My Great Strides Story

Please read my daughter in law’s beautiful letter to my granddaughter, Winnie. Written on behalf of Winnie’s cousin, Kadyn, who is trying daily to overcome CF.  We need your support!

 Thank you and all our love, Brenda and Steve 

My Darling Baby Daughter -
It is a common misconception that role models are older than you because they are generally people you hope to be like when you grow up. But here's the secret…we are ALWAYS growing up and if we are doing it right, we are always trying to better ourselves. We do this by noticing the things we love most about others, and collecting them, as if they are treasures, to make them a part of who we are piece by piece. These treasures can be found in everyone if you look for them…no matter how big or small, young or old.

You, my lucky girl, are already blessed with so many role models. Many we will share.

One role model, for instance, happens to be quite a bit younger than I am. Though her spirit, I'm convinced, has lived a thousand lives. She is your cousin Kadyn. By looks, some think you resemble baby Kadyn with your big curious eyes and mischievous smile. But I hope you get much more than that.

I hope you collect her resilience. Please, wait a little longer than she did to defy the word “no.” But look to her for inspiration for overcoming the unlikely…no matter what it takes.

I hope you collect her sense of humor and silliness. Laughter is the best medicine. Even in the depths of sadness and exhaustion there is always a giggle fit waiting for you.

I hope you collect her strength. It's multidimensional. You see it in the form of perseverance and you see it the form of vulnerability. Strength, Winnie girl, does not always mean tough. I believe this wholeheartedly. (Although, she's pretty tough too).

And I hope you collect her intentionality. When Kadyn was very little, in the middle of having a great time, she would stop, look me in the eyes and say “I love you Kyky”…and she meant it. Everything she does, she does with purpose and full out. In everything you do Winnie, MEAN IT.

You'll find more treasures too. They are endless. I can't wait to discover all you deem collectible.

One last thing…
Kadyn wasn't dealt the best hand in life. But you'd never know it. She is never a victim. She is always a warrior.

But sometimes even our heroes need a boost. I hope when one of those treasures aren't sparkling like they usually do, that you help buff it out and shine it. It's important to remind your people why you collected their treasures in the first place. It's the least we can do. After all, they are what make up the best of us.

I love you.
Mom


Friends, our hero needs a boost. Whether it's a prayer, a word of encouragement, spreading the word, donating for a cure, or joining us in the walk. This is our chancet to shine ‘er up. We appreciate your support more than you know.

Kylie, Austin and Winnie.

DATE: October 21st
LOCATION: Rutledge Wilson Farm
TIME: Check-in @ 9a // Walk starts @ 10a

Nearly 40,000 people in the United States have cystic fibrosis: a progressive, genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. They are moms, dads, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons, and friends who face the sobering prospect of a shortened lifespan. I walk for them.

Working alongside the CF community, the CF Foundation has fostered the development of more than a dozen CF treatments and helped add decades of life for people with CF. Yet, many people with CF do not benefit from existing therapies. Our vision is a cure for every person with cystic fibrosis – a life free from the burden of this disease – and we will not leave anyone behind.

You can support me!

By supporting my fundraising goal, you have an opportunity in your lifetime to be part of ending this disease. Please consider joining us and help make medical history.