31 Days of CF: CF May Be Scary, But People Living With CF Are Tough

Craig and his wife Robyn pose with their son.  Photo courtesy of Craig Jones

Day 6 of 31

This is Craig Jones’ story:

My name is Craig Jones. I am 37 years old, from England, and I have CF. I was diagnosed at 3 weeks old. Throughout my life, I have been lucky with my health, but part of that was due to my parents looking after me so well and refusing to let CF dictate what I could do.

In my younger years, I was fortunate to have a supportive school, where I was given time to take necessary medications, use the disabled toilet, and have a carer check on me. I’ve never taken that care for granted!

I also have a real penchant for running, and have done so for years — inspired by my Dad, who was a runner. I’ve completed virtual runs, 10Ks, half and full marathons! I’m currently doing a year-long challenge to run a mile a day. It’s a challenge for myself, but also for three great causes, one of which is the CF Trust.

CF has proven to be a stumbling block at times. When I run, I would cough. I have at least two chest infections a year — and I’ve found that my cough would wake my newborn son when all my wife Robyn and I wanted was to sleep! My wife has grown to know more about CF and understands the cards I’ve been dealt.

That’s one thing I want to be able to share with those with CF. Yes, it is scary. Yes, it is unpredictable. Yes, it can affect today. But people with CF are resilient, they are courageous, and they are tough! We see a challenge and take it on, headfirst.

I have lived a brilliant and fortuitous life. I had a vibrant and fun childhood. I have traveled the world, fallen in love, gotten married, and had a child. There are so many odds stacked against me, but I always bet on myself. And whilst I’m still breathing, I need to help those who struggle, too. Raising awareness and money for charity is the least I can do.

Cystic Fibrosis News Today’s 31 Days of CF campaign will publish one story per day for Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month in May. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more stories like this, using the hashtag #31DaysofCF, or read the full series.