The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is excited to share that thanks to the remarkable CF community, our Milestones III: Driven by a Dream campaign raised more than $250 million — exceeding our original fundraising goal by $50 million. This milestone reflects the unwavering commitment of roughly 2,000 donors.
“We deeply thank the CF community for fueling progress against this disease,” said Michael P. Boyle, MD, president and CEO of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Over the next five years, we will invest $1.5 billion to help accelerate breakthroughs in research and clinical care — and this extraordinary support is what makes that level of ambition possible.”
Longstanding volunteers Kate O’Donnell and Amy Barry stepped forward to carry the torch as Co-Chairs of Milestones III in the wake of the late Joe O’Donnell’s passing in January 2024. Joe chaired Milestones III as well as the Milestones I and II campaigns. Because of Kate and Amy’s incredible leadership, the campaign became a defining triumph that set a new bar in fundraising as the Foundation continues to boldly pursue a cure.
“My husband Peter and I are incredibly grateful for this community,” said Amy Barry. “We are paying it forward knowing that there are still many who are waiting for a life-changing therapy. We will remain in this fight until there is a cure for all.”
Though the Milestones III campaign has concluded, the Foundation’s momentum is accelerating. With the next five-year strategic plan as our guide, we are driving essential science forward. We know that advancing a single genetic therapy could cost up to ten times more than developing a novel therapy just a decade ago.
“My family and I have been part of this journey for decades in honor of my late brother, Joey, and all those whose lives were cut far too short due to CF,” said Kate O’Donnell. “We will continue to do all we can to end cystic fibrosis. As Joe said, ‘Giving up is not an option.’”
The success of the Milestones III campaign reflects the collective leadership of CF Foundation Board Chair KC White; Executive Vice President and Chief Operating and Financial Officer Irena Barisic; Ambassadors Amy and John Weinberg, Kate and Bob Niehaus; and the Milestones III National Steering Committee.
“Behind every dollar is a person, a family, and a future we’re fighting for,” Irena Barisic noted. “Thank you for joining us, as together we take bold steps forward to cure cystic fibrosis.”
To learn more or make a gift, please contact Angela Lynn, senior national leadership giving director, at alynn@cff.org or 301-907-2578.
