Maureen Riordan

Time continues to be weird. This is our 17th Great Strides walk. It may be virtual, but we are still counting it. We are very honored that Megan was chosen to be the Local Ambassador for the walk this year. Still in the midst of a pandemic, it is much harder to ask for support this year. Whether this is the first time I’m asking you or the 17th time I’m asking you, I’m hoping you can support us as we raise money to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

While 2019 was life changing with the FDA approval of Trikafta (a drug that treats the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis and it has proven to slow the progression of the disease and prevent the decrease of lung function), we once again rooted for the FDA in 2020 as they approved the Covid vaccinations.

Although we are hopeful it might change, with the pandemic, we have chosen to not reduce Megan’s treatments. Megan's routine still includes almost two hours of treatments daily along with 10 different medications (the equivalent of 50 pills each day), just to stay healthy. There is no cure for CF. In 1962, a child with CF was not expected to live past age 10. Today, the predicted median survival age is 40 (and climbing!). We are raising money for research to give those with CF a normal life expectancy. Many of Megan’s medicines are relatively new and there are lots of drugs in the pipeline, so we know our fundraising makes a big difference.

The Illinois chapters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation are having a virtual walk on Saturday, May 15. We hope you can join us.

We would appreciate any donations. Please ask your company if they provide matching funds. Many companies will match your donation. We are continually grateful for the outpouring of love and support. Over the past sixteen years, Team Megan has raised almost $959,000. Please help us continue to do all we can for Megan. We cannot be successful without your help.

Thank you so much! Love,

Frank, Maureen, Megan and Kelsey