Walgreens Cystic Fibrosis Services Feature #CFChampions, #IC #ad

This post was sponsored by Walgreens Cystic Fibrosis Services as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. I received compensation as a thank you for my post.

How much do you know about Cystic Fibrosis? Did you know Cystic Fibrosis (CF) affects about 30,000 children and adults, in the United States? My cousin is one of them. She was diagnosed as an infant and since she's never known any other life, she wakes up like so many other children, happily and ready to play and enjoy her day. She lives her life positively and has never known any different life.  

My cousin's loved ones were scared when she was diagnosed but there was a bit of relief because there was finally a reason for all her unexplainable health problems – weight loss, tummy issues, and more.  Before my cousin's diagnosis, I had never heard of Cystic Fibrosis.  It’s something we all had to learn more about so we could support her as much as possible. She has a great support team; I’m so thankful for it because it’s what will continue to help her wake up each day and look at the brighter side of things.  Without love and support, people with cystic fibrosis often feel sad and alone. I don't ever want that for her. Walgreens now has a Cystic Fibrosis Champions program so that nobody ever feels alone. This way, patients, families and friends are "Navigating the Journey Together." 

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a complex condition; it’s something she will deal with for the rest of her life.  She will be educated about this as she grows and will be reminded of it daily for the rest of your life. 

CF primarily affects the digestive and respiratory systems.  There are many people with CF, who are isolated from other people due to the increased risk of cross contamination and infection.

Many CF patients report high levels of depression and anxiety which can often impact the disease severity and outcomes.  Thankfully my cousin is now a toddler and has not known any different life but it's still hard at times when she has to be careful. As she gets older, this will only continue. 

What Can Be Done To Help Those Suffering From CF?

Adhering to medications, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes and improved life experiences. CF affects everyone differently, so CF patients often take different medicines, but medication adherence is still important for those living with CF.

What’s a typical day like living with CF?

Everyday different and filled with things like lung exercises, walking on the treadmill, taking medications, sanitation, eating healthy, getting enough sleep, nebulizers, meeting her daily calorie intake and finding a way to smile and laugh each day.  She's happy and a light hearted toddler but still needs to get all these things done from day to day and sometimes, she's crabby or grumpy about it. Living with with CF is not easy but I am proud of my cousin, she is so strong. 

WALGREENS CYSTIC FIBROSIS (CF) CHAMPIONS “NAVIGATING THE JOURNEY TOGETHER

Walgreens CF Champions have learned to make the most of each day, and they do this by sharing their amazing stories and advice with people around the world. You can read some of these stories here. I was amazed and inspired to read their stories and read about Kristen, a Mom who was diagnosed at age 31 and also has two children, also diagnosed, at the ages of 3 and 7. I know life is challenging for a typical Mom but to read about her days was incredibly inspiring!  

Learn more about Walgreen Cystic Fibrosis Champions program on their website at Walgreens.com.