Patrick Whalen

My Great Strides Story

On October 11th 2016, my brother, Robert Patrick Whalen passed away from cystic fibrosis. Many people that knew him were not aware of his condition because he was very private about it. Although his days on earth were shortened, his life was full. He had a very active lifestyle: hiking, longboarding, snowboarding. Any chance he had to be in the mountains or by the water, he took. He was always kind and generous to everyone and had a smile that could light up a room (literally). He was a loving brother, son, fiancé, and friend and I am doing this walk to honor his memory with hopes to make a small difference in the fight against CF.

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.