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A Father’s Vision for A CF-Free World

Dave and his family posing outside. They are all looking fondly at Andre.
Cystic Fibrosis Canada
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Stories

MARCH 21, 2024

As a father, the last seven years of my life have been paved with moments of profound fear, boundless love and an unwavering commitment to my son, Andre, who lives with cystic fibrosis (CF). 

The day we learned of Andre’s diagnosis was a day our world turned on its axis. The fear, guilt and uncertainty that enveloped my wife, Liz, and me were indescribable. Yet, it was through the support of friends, the CF community, and the exceptional care from the Toronto CF clinic at SickKids that we found our footing again. They showed us that CF did not mean the end but a different kind of beginning. 

Andre wearing a blue button-up shirt and posing outside.

Andre’s resilience in the face of CF has been nothing short of inspirational. Despite the challenges, his bravery shines through, reminding us daily of the strength hidden in the smallest of us. Witnessing the transformative impact of treatments like Orkambi and Trikafta on Andre’s life has brought us hope. These medications have drastically reduced the burden of daily care and significantly improved his quality of life. Yet, the reality remains that these life-altering treatments are not a cure, and they’re not accessible to everyone with CF. I look at how fortunate my family has been in our experience with this disease, and I want to help make Andre’s experience a realistic outcome for all. 

This understanding drives our family’s involvement in the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History. For the first time this year, we are not just participants but advocates, stepping forward with a community that understands the highs and lows of this journey. We walk for Andre, for every child and adult battling CF, and for the hope of a future where this disease no longer casts a shadow over anyone’s life. 

As we approach the Walk on Sunday, May 26, I invite you to join us in supporting groundbreaking research, ensuring access to vital treatments, and ultimately, change the course of this disease forever. 

Please register for the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History today. Your involvement could be the key that unlocks a future where every breath is a promise of many more to come. 

Dave Clair