Melissa Shiffman

Adult with CF

Melissa was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of 5. After briefly working in the music industry, she became a social worker, which heightened her interest in politics. Melissa began advocating with the CF Foundation in 2011 and served as National Advocacy Co-Chair. As a former board member of the Cystic Fibrosis Reproductive and Sexual Health Collaborative, she helped write the Cystic Fibrosis Sexual and Reproductive Guide — a guide written by patients for providers and patients. Melissa resides in downtown New York City with her husband, two children, and rescue dog, staring at her phone waiting for her daughter to call/FaceTime/text/send owl from college.

Blog Posts

Photograph of Melissa Shiffman and her husband standing outside

I have had a fortunate life with cystic fibrosis given the fact that I married, had two kids, and a career. However, with increasing — and sometimes bewildering — health issues, I’m beginning to wonder whether it’s my CF or just aging, or something in between.

Apr. 28, 2023 | 7 min read

Melissa-Shiffman-Baby-On-Chest-Featured-Rectangle

When I was pregnant in the early 2000s, there was little information available about cystic fibrosis and pregnancy, and I didn't even know what concerns to address with my providers. I am glad more women with CF have shared their family building experience.

Feb. 9, 2021 | 5 min read

Melissa-Shiffman-Brother-Featured-Rectangle

Losing my brother when I was just a teenager left me feeling isolated in my grief. There was no internet or social media in the 1980s to connect with other people with CF. Therapy and time eventually allowed me to cope with his loss, open up to family and friends, and invite them to share in my memories.

Feb. 5, 2019 | 7 min read

It is hard to know how much to share with our kids. We want to protect them, but we also need to give them age-appropriate information or else their imaginations will run wild.

Jan. 31, 2016 | 5 min read