Thanks to the support of so many of you, 2019 was quite a year for CF, The CF Warrior Project, and the Wish for Wendy Foundation. Great news reported on a breakthrough CF drug, Trikafta, FDA approved October 27. This drug should benefit 90% of the CF community, but we are still advocating for the other 10%. Our blog is reaching a great deal of the CF community and its purpose remains being real, but also positive about what it means to live with CF. Real about the struggles, but hopeful for each new milestone and drug that is providing better treatment, and one day leading to a cure.
Wish for Wendy eclipsed $4.5 million gross in its 20th year! We continue to evaluate ways to make our foundation bigger and better.
In 2019, the CF Warrior Project made its way on The Today Show (October 21) and to Pasadena, CA, where I was able to climb the steps, finishing tied for first thanks to a gentleman who waited for me to catch up so we could cross the finish line together. As Apollo said in the first “Rocky” movie, “Ain’t gonna be no rematch.” LOL! I also was a part of the 2019 Atlanta Jewish Book Festival and had speaking engagements around Atlanta, GA, and in Knoxville, TN, spreading the word about CF.
Where do we see the CF Warrior Project going in 2020? Well …
Speeches and trips already have been booked at Johns Hopkins and in Denver. I am looking for opportunities to speak about the CF Warrior Project and about making a difference in the fight for a cure. We will continue to build our online community for CF Warriors and share stories of hope and triumph, as well as provide insight, perspective, and support to those who need it.
Currently, the search is on for finding candidates to feature in the second book. Please stay tuned for more details on how to submit your story for the next book! We are looking for people with CF, or others who may not have CF but are positive influences in the CF community. For the second CF Warrior project book, we are including both advocates and role models with fascinating stories.
As we repeatedly say, the CF Warrior Project is more than a book. It’s a movement. The project has helped spread hope and created a supportive virtual CF Warrior community for those with CF and their loved ones. The CF Warrior Project has provided a space to connect with others and be inspired by stories of hope and triumph.
Please reach out to us and let us know what you want to see in 2020 from The CF Warrior Project.
Live your dreams and love your life, and most of all—Happy New Year!
Andy