About Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive, fatal genetic disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. CF causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, which leads to life-threatening lung infections and ultimately, respiratory failure. There are approximately 40,000 people with CF in the United States and 105,000 worldwide.

In recent years, there have been transformative mutation-targeted therapies approved for 90% of the CF community. Unfortunately, 10% of the CF community, including our co-founder Emily, have genetic mutations that do not benefit from these life-changing advances. Those in the final 10% still contend with the same deadly disease that CF has always been — waiting with bated and fading breath for their breakthrough. 

“For Natalie’s mutation, there is no mutation-specific treatment at all. The new advancements in cystic fibrosis mean absolutely nothing for her. In a way, we are glad that she is only 7 years old and not old enough to be crushed by the agonizing fear and frustration of realizing that you have nothing available to make you better when so many others are cheering incredible progress.” – Arek Puzia, father of a child with CF

Emily’s Entourage (EE) believes that no matter how rare your disease or mutation, nobody should be left behind and every single person with CF deserves hope for a future and for a deep breath. 

Interested in learning more? Check out our blog post on the top five things you (probably) don’t know about CF!

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