I’ve been supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for as long as I can remember—through Great Strides walks and through my family’s involvement with the Wine and Roses Gala. My dedication has always been rooted in love and remembrance of my cousin Matt, who passed away in 2010.
 

The picture below is from one of my earliest Great Strides walks—I was only six months old when Matt died. From those early days to proudly joining the cause again last year, my commitment to honoring him and supporting the CF community has never changed. Even when this year’s walk fell on the same day as my brother Zach’s graduation, my heart was still with the CF Foundation.
 

As I prepare for my Confirmation in the Catholic Faith, I’ve chosen to honor Matt once again. Instead of gifts, I’m asking for donations to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation—a cause that means so much to me and my family.
 

I also carry Matt with me on the football field, wearing #65 in honor of “Sixty-Five Roses,” the phrase children often use for cystic fibrosis. My Aunt Rosanne especially loves that I carry Matt on my back every game—a quiet but powerful reminder of why I do this.
 

Thank you for helping me keep Matt’s memory alive and for supporting the CF community. Every donation brings us closer to a cure—and I’m grateful to be part of that journey. 💜