31 Days of CF: My Dream to Be a Mother Is Finally a Reality

Photo courtesy of Emily Lefebvre

Day 9 of 31

This is Emily Lefebvre’s story:

The month of May is becoming special for me. Not only is it Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, but May includes Mother’s Day as well. 

Let me back up a bit and tell you about myself…

My name is Emily and I was diagnosed with CF when I was 10 months old. I’ve always said my mother diagnosed me. Doctors kept giving answers that didn’t sit well with my mom: lactose intolerant, allergic to the laundry detergent, acid reflux.

My mom came across CF in a pamphlet and I checked all the boxes. However, my mom was hesitant to mention it because the doctors should know what they’re doing, right? She finally brought it up and I was tested. I wouldn’t be here without my mom. That is the first reason Mother’s Day is fit to be in CF Awareness Month, in my opinion.

I am happy to say this is my first Mother’s Day as a mom myself. I always wanted to be a mother and have a family. Growing up, I was scared that wasn’t going to happen. Would my CF prevent me from carrying? Would I get sick, and, God forbid, something happens to me, when my baby is little? These were my fears.

In 2019, the miracle of Trikafta happened. I truly believe it plays a part in my motherhood journey. My dream to be a mother is finally a reality. I am constantly in awe of how my chronically ill body has persevered and hasn’t given up on me this last year.

I had a smooth pregnancy. I carried out my goal of giving birth unmedicated like a badass — I needed at least one event in my life to happen drug-free — and I’ve been able to keep up a milk supply five months postpartum. I admit there are some emotional challenges for me currently, but I’m ecstatic that my physical health hasn’t stopped me.  

When I was born, the life expectancy for CF was around 27. Well, guess what, CF? I gave birth at 27 … and I’m healthy and living life to the fullest!

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 go here to see the full series.