Cindy Phaup

My Great Strides Story

So many of y’all donated last year to this great cause. Please consider helping me reach my goal again this year!

Our granddaughter Merritt was born November 5, 2022 and was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in December after her newborn screening indicated elevated IRT levels and subsequent sweat chloride and genetic testing. We are blessed that she was diagnosed early and thanks to advances in science and treatment, Merritt was eligible to begin CFTR modulator therapy at 4 months, but there is no cure yet. I am walking in honor of Merritt, our beautiful, vibrant baby girl and raising money to find a cure for 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.


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.