Priest Paddles Around the Florida Keys to Raise Awareness of Cystic Fibrosis

A priest from Brunswick, Georgia, has just finished paddleboarding around the Florida Keys to raise awareness of cystic fibrosis (CF). Reverend Alan Akridge traveled 111 miles on a stand-up paddleboard in his “Starboard to Fort” and hopes to raise $10,000 for the Maryland Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

MORE: Six ways to help you take care of your lungs.

Akridge embarked on this epic challenge for one of his parishioners: 13-year-old Charlotte Snyder was diagnosed with CF when she was just 4 months old.

According to the Brunswick News, the paddleboard journey was conducted over 11 legs and Akridge had his 15-year-old son, Harrison, traveling behind in a borrowed skiff to carry supplies. The duo stopped at various campsites along the way to spread the word about the genetic disease and hopefully raise more money for the cause.

Akridge detailed his amazing journey through his Paddling Priest Facebook page.

MORE: Eight tips for staying hydrated with cystic fibrosis. 

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