Jim And Jacque Yungkans

My Great Strides Story

Dedicated to raising funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of my two daughters Juliann and Jessica. As sisters both living with cystic fibrosis, they shared a bond that goes beyond words. Our team name, Salty Sisters, reflects their shared experiences with CF – from the salt air of the beach that helps CFers get out mucus from their lungs, to the need for extra salt on our food, and the literal saltiness of our skin due to excessive sweating, a common symptom of CF.

Juliann quickly became accustomed to the routine of living with CF (and not letting it define her). Countless pills, vest therapy, nebulizer treatments, labs, doctors, and so many hospital stays. We are so proud of her for all that she has achieved so far. Starting very young she set goals for herself and never looked back! Sports in JH and High School, MBA, working full time, meeting and marrying her soulmate and giving birth to our beautiful granddaughter!  

Jessica's journey with CF was marked by both resilience and struggle. Despite facing numerous challenges, she remained determined and optimistic, especially after receiving a life-changing lung transplant. Her spirit and ambition inspired us all as she embraced her newfound freedom to breathe better. Sadly, Jessica's battle with CF came to an end in 2021, leaving a void in our lives that can never be filled.

Despite the heartache of losing Jessica, we are committed to continuing her legacy by participating in the CFF Great Strides walk. This year marks our team's first step back into fundraising after her passing, and though it's been difficult, we know that Jessica would want us to carry on the fight against CF.

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.