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I suffered a great deal of damage growing up with cystic fibrosis in a small Appalachian town — physically and emotionally. But with a lot of hard work, I have been able to overcome some of the emotional scars.

Advances in cystic fibrosis care have been life-changing for me, and I’m grateful to breathe easier with a CFTR modulator. However, I began to experience new issues in the past few years, and I am left wondering if it’s a side effect of the CFTR modulator or something else.

My son, Keith, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after an initial focus on CF as the cause of his health issues. With people with CF living longer, we need more awareness of pancreatic cancer in CF individuals due to the potential increased risk.

I have enjoyed pretty good health, so I have tried to keep my cystic fibrosis on the back burner while I pursue my passions. Sometimes, though, CF intrudes, reminding me that it’s still here.

We couldn’t wait to take our daughter home from the hospital. But when the time finally came to bring my daughter home, I began to lose confidence in myself as I tried handling all the medications and formula. With time, I built a great routine for my family and learned some tips and tricks to share with other new parents.

Michael Burke bicycled 480 miles in six days to raise money for cystic fibrosis — an unprecedented challenge that he used to think was impossible until advances in CF care helped him live boldly.