My Xtreme Hike Story

My Hike Story

This year I am excited to join Team Sleephikers to raise funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis. Currently, there is no cure for cystic fibrosis. By participating in Xtreme Hike, I am helping to end this disease for thousands of people impacted by CF.

Cystic fibrosis affects nearly 40,000 people in the US and their families. It affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. The symptoms can vary from person to person, and as people with CF live longer than ever before, their disease can become more complicated, leading to serious health issues. 

I first learned about CF through the O'Reilly family when we moved to Culpeper in 2003. Their children, Aly, Maddie, and Killian all live with CF. I still remember the impact of learning that the life expectancy of someone with CF was 31 years old. Thanks to the work of the CF Foundation, I have seen their quality of life improve dramatically over the years. I am also happy to report that they have recently raised that life expectancy to 61 years old. That's a 30 year difference!

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has made extraordinary progress — including fostering the development of more than a dozen CF treatments — but these treatments are not a cure and not everyone can benefit from them. We must keep going. I know these young adults have plans beyond their sixties. I need your help to make this happen.

Your support makes a difference.

By donating to my fundraising goal, you will help advance our mission for a cure for all. Please consider joining us and helping make CF stand for Cure Found.