A MESSAGE FROM Natalia's Fundraising Page
The first time I held my nephew, Theodore, I remember his tiny, perfect body fitting right into my arms. He was so peaceful and sweet, it felt like he had been sent to our family as a little gift from our dad in heaven. It was hard to believe that someone so small could already have such a big story ahead of him.
When my sister was just 13 weeks pregnant, she and her husband learned that Teddy had cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is a genetic disease that neither side of our family had any known history of, yet they both unknowingly carried the gene. Receiving that news during pregnancy brought so many emotions and unknowns about what Teddy’s life might look like.
In the midst of that uncertainty, they were given an incredible opportunity. My sister was able to begin a new medication during pregnancy that helps reduce many of the complications babies with CF often face. Today, Teddy continues that medication, and because of the incredible progress in CF research and treatment, he is thriving in so many ways.
Since his birth, Teddy has been cared for by the amazing team of specialists at Boston Children’s Hospital, and our family is endlessly grateful for the care and support they have provided.
At 11 months old, Teddy already lights up every room he’s in. He smiles and laughs with his whole face and looks at you like you’re the most important person in the world. He loves anything the color red (just like our Pa), listening to my mom sing to him, and watching photos and videos of himself. Teddy doesn’t know about diagnoses or hospital visits; he only knows love.
This November, I will be running the New York City Marathon for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in Teddy’s honor. Every mile I run will be for him. For the treatments he takes, the appointments he attends, and the hope that one day there will be a cure.
Teddy is truly a little angel in our lives with a bright and beautiful future ahead of him, and that is a finish line worth running toward.
From the bottom of our hearts, my family and I are so grateful for your support and for helping this incredible foundation continue its mission to care for and fight for thousands of people living with cystic fibrosis.🩵
