My whole life I pushed myself physically and mentally to achieve my dream in professional wrestling. It turns out I wasn’t dealing with CF. CF was dealing with me.
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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.
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.
Although I admired bodybuilders when I was growing up, I thought pumping iron and building muscle was impossible with cystic fibrosis — so I didn’t even try. After a hospitalization, my passion for fitness was rekindled and I discovered I could build muscle mass and improve my health.
Growing up, I always tried to stay active, but it wasn’t until I was hospitalized that I decided martial arts would be the outlet to keep me healthy and boost my confidence.
When I realized how much my nutrition strategy was impacting my performance as a marathon runner, I decided to reevaluate my plan to be more intentional about how to best fuel my body before running.
Adjusting to life after my newly adopted son’s cystic fibrosis diagnosis has been challenging at times, but I will do all I can to support and advocate for him.
To the moms of children with CF who feel isolated in their journey — you are not alone. This is my letter to you, from someone who understands.