Blog

I spent my childhood and young adulthood being told I was “too young and healthy” to be dealing with the health issues I experienced. But as an adult, I was determined to find answers, and eventually, I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.

Growing up with CF, running was never an easy thing for me. Despite that, I dedicated myself to my school’s cross-country team for years and earned a spot on the varsity team. When the chance to qualify for the state finals came, I knew I couldn’t let CF stand in my way.

The looming awareness of my own mortality from cystic fibrosis fueled years of substance misuse. But after hitting bottom and seeking help through a health program, I have been sober since August 2024, reclaimed my mental and physical health, and found strength and community in recovery.

I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby, only to be told later that I didn't have it. As an adult, I began to face persistent health challenges and had to become my own advocate, pushing for action until I finally received an answer.

I felt emotionally and physically unprepared to navigate my daughter’s cystic fibrosis diagnosis while managing my mental health. However, connecting with other families in the CF community, along with the support of my family and friends, gave me the strength to move forward.

My cystic fibrosis-related liver disease put me on the transplant list twice, but I never ended up receiving a new liver. While I’m so grateful to be stable today, I’m realizing the long-term effects of what I went through.