CF Community Blog

Going to college while living with cystic fibrosis carries its unique challenges. One of these is learning to be vulnerable about CF with others. But as I learned to be open, I discovered that CF did not build up walls to community — it opened doors. 

A recent hospitalization reminded me that my strength to fight cystic fibrosis is deeply rooted in my Filipino heritage and the unwavering support of my family. 

Growing up, it wasn’t my cystic fibrosis that fueled my anxiety — it was the checklist of mental tasks I believed would prevent disaster. It wasn’t until adulthood that I learned this behavior is actually obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Training for an Ironman race is no easy feat, especially when living with cystic fibrosis. But I'm more determined than ever to push my limits, make my younger self proud, and prove to others that nothing is impossible.

Finding a balance between motherhood, my career, and personal priorities while managing cystic fibrosis has taught me the importance of open communication, especially when life feels overwhelming, so I can fully show up for my family, my work, and myself. 

After seeing the impact of my sister’s cystic fibrosis throughout my childhood, my late CF diagnosis, while difficult, has brought healing, strength, and a renewed sense of purpose to my life.