Cystic Fibrosis Foundation - Central Texas Chapter

65 Roses Day (6/5) is around the corner! Are you familiar with the “65 Roses” story?

The “65 Roses” story began in 1965 when a 4-year-old, hearing the name of his disease for the first time, pronounced cystic fibrosis as “65 Roses.” Today, it’s a term many children with CF still use to describe their disease. But making the disease easier to say doesn’t make it easier to live with.

Key to the Cure Austin is Back! Mark your calendar for an unforgettable night as we come together to celebrate, give back, and help find a cure for cystic fibrosis.

📍 Brazos Hall, Austin
📅 Friday, November 20, 2026

Enjoy an incredible evening featuring award-winning chef Tim Love, live entertainment, and powerful stories that remind us why this mission matters.

Stay tuned for ticket details https://events.cff.org/keytothecure

As we wrap up Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, we are grateful for everyone who raised awareness and supported the CF community. Together, we will keep pushing forward until we find a cure for all people with cystic fibrosis. Get involved in an upcoming event or make a donation to help make it possible.
https://give.cff.org/central-texas/donate?rbref=homepage

Our walkers, team leaders, volunteers, and so many more make Great Strides more than just an event — it’s a movement. Alongside our Great Strides sponsors: Vertex, AbbVie, and Nestle Health Science, we can help end cystic fibrosis.

Cystic fibrosis is more than a lung disease. It is a genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 31, Kristen Chidsey never fit the traditional picture of CF. What carried her through was individualized care and the unwavering support of the CF community.

“For years, I carried a collection of unexplained health issues that never quite added up. I didn’t cough, I didn’t wheeze, and nothing about me fit the traditional picture of cystic fibrosis.”

The Diagnosis I Never Expected I had an unexpected cystic fibrosis diagnosis at 31 and later learned that both of my children had CFTR-related disorder. What carried us through was individualized care and the unwavering support of the CF community.

Nominations are now open for 2026 Austin’s Finest! Through this program, participants grow their network, strengthen leadership skills, and raise critical funds to support the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

If you know someone in Austin who is driven, community-minded, and ready to make an impact — nominate them today.
🎉 Build meaningful connections
🎉 Elevate your professional presence
🎉 Give back alongside Austin’s leaders

Learn more and nominate today through https://afasignup.formstack.com/forms/2026_finest_interest_form

While we’ve made incredible progress in the fight to cure cystic fibrosis, we know many in our community have lost loved ones to this disease. 💛
At Great Strides each year, we create space to honor those individuals in our memory tent—and this year was especially meaningful. Thanks to , we featured a beautiful rose garden display, with each rose representing a heartfelt dedication to someone who lost their battle with CF. 🌹
It was a powerful moment of reflection and remembrance for our community. Thank you for helping us create something so special—we’re truly grateful for your partnership!