My Xtreme Hike Story

VENMO @HAILEECOWLES

Hi! Welcome to my page!

​Growing up, my friend Jen was always sick. I was told to wash my hands around her and keep my germs to myself. I remember thinking, "Shouldn't SHE be the one keeping her germs to herself if she's sick?" It wasn't until a middle school science class that I learned the severity of my friend's condition. The textbooks we read said that there was no cure for CF, and those with the disease often don't make it through high school. This statistic terrified me. I feared losing my dear friend Jen and the impact this disease had on her quality of life. I immersed myself in every video and article I could find on cystic fibrosis, and my passion for science and serving the CF community was born.

Since then, I have worked hard to serve this remarkable community in every way possible. Here are a few of my highlights...

1) In high school, my family and I participated in Teen Advocacy Day, meeting with elected officials to share our story and promote comprehensive health coverage for those with CF.

2) In high school, I worked closely with the CFF Phoenix Chapter, creating engaging social media content to foster connections and raise awareness in the community. I assisted in the planning and execution of everyone's favorite fundraising events such as the 65 Roses Gala, Great Strides, and CF Climb. I was even awarded Volunteer of the Year in 2017.

3) In high school and college, I successfully completed TWO Xtreme Hikes across the Grand Canyon; so yes, I am back for more!

4) In college, I had the remarkable opportunity to work on a clinical trial studying the efficacy and safety of Trikafta on those with CF.

5) During the COVID era, I was nominated as one of Arizona's Finest in the online fundraising effort and celebration hosted by the Tomorrow's Leaders program.

6) Post-graduation, from Arizona to California, I have maintained ties to the community, volunteering at local fundraising events and participating in the Tomorrow's Leaders Young Professional program.

7) Most recently, I had the opportunity to attend the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference, learning about the cutting-edge therapeutic and research innovations on the horizon for the CF community.

As I hope you can see, my connection to this community is deeply personal. Cystic fibrosis sparked my passion for science, and I am beyond excited to pursue a career in medicine and contribute to the CF community throughout my lifetime.

I am sure you are wondering about my friend Jen... where is she now? Well, I am happy to report that she is the very reason I am doing the hike this year. Jen is going to be taking on the Grand Canyon alongside me, all 23.9 miles of it!

Jen is a senior at Texas Christian University, trail-blazing her way toward a bright future in medicine and setting an example for those with CF. I could not be more proud of all that she has accomplished, and I am honored to hike the Grand Canyon by her side. 

Events like the Xtreme Hike, raise funds and awareness to contribute to novel CF treatments and advancements in science that improve the lives of those living with the disease. Jen is a prime example of resilience and the impact of the generous commitments and donations made by the community. 

But the fight is not over. There is still no cure for CF. There are several individuals who do not benefit from the current modulator treatments available due to their unique genetic mutations.​ In this community, we stand together and fight until there is a cure found for everyone living with cystic fibrosis. 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.

Cystic Fibrosis: A Quick Background

Cystic fibrosis 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. 

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.

Your support makes a difference.