My name is Janeil Whitworth and I am a 25 year old woman living with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive + life-threatening + chronic genetic disease that damages the respiratory and digestive systems in the body. Due to CF, my body produces sticky mucus which causes frequent chronic lung infections, poor digestion and absorption, and other numerous complications, such as CF related diabetes.

My days are spent completing hours of breathing treatments and vest therapy, taking 40+ pills a day, attempting to consume 4,000 calories, and monitoring my blood sugar in order to care for myself and manage my disease. It is a lot to handle and certaintly a challenge most days, but I am continually thankful for the medications and treatment options available (in part due to fundraising events just like this) which help me to live a beautiful and happy life.



I enjoy my life and am so very thankful for the experiences and perspective I have been given because of my CF, but the reality is I am always striving for a betr quality of life and more days than I am statistically given, and I am not the only one. There are approximately 30,000 Americans living with cystic fibrosis. There are many others who are also wives, husbands, moms, dads, sisters, brothers, daughters, sons, and friends, and they struggle every day just to breathe. They understand what is means to work for each and every day. We will be walking for them, my family and my husband, my dear friends with CF, and for anyone who has ever been touch by CF in their lifetime in Great Strides 5k in May.

I hope you will support me in my efforts.

Real progress has been made in the search for a cure, but the lives of people with CF are still cut far too short. There still is no cure for this devastating disease and life expectancy remains at just 40 years old. By walking today, I am helping add tomorrows to the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis. Buy a tshirt (proceeds donated to CFF) or support me by making a donation to my Great Strides fundraising campaign today on Facebook!

Great Strides is a fun, family-friendly event at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo that raises awareness and support for people with CF and their families.