
My cousin Makenzie was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis in 2000. In the past 23 years Cystic Fibrosis treatment has come so far. In 2000, our family didn't have near the knowledge and resources available then. We weren't sure how many milestones Makenzie would have the chance to achieve. This last year Makenzie finished her bachelor's degree and got married. She is an ASL teacher in Dallas, Texas. We are walking for a cure! No family should have to experience Cystic Fibrosis.
Makenzie's Cystic Fibrosis Journey
"My life with CF is different from most. I have been very fortunate to not have a lot of the battles that others have had; however, I have still fought my fight for the past 26 years.
I was diagnosed at the age of 4 1/2 with delta F508 gene mutation. My mom came home from work one day and decided to lick my arm after hearing about CF on the internet. Low and behold that was what was causing everything I was experiencing.
Throughout the years I have gotten the chance to take Orkambi, Symdeko, and finally Trikafta.
I’m not going to lie, my experience with Trikafta has been rough. All of the mental side effects of the drug hit me like a bus. I learned to manage the side effects and the drug has helped me significantly. It’s helping me maintain my PFTs and help prevent anything that could happen. Recently, I have been diagnosed with CFRD and learning to manage that as well. "
CFRD is Cystic Fibrosis Related Diabetes.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: Adding Tomorrows
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.
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