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Due to the invisible nature of cystic fibrosis (CF), many people with the disease feel unseen in their challenges. To mark CF Awareness Month, we partnered with patient advocate Brad Dell to create a series of articles — released each Thursday in May — about how to make those struggles known and build supports that lighten the burden.

May 29, 2025 by Brad Dell

‘It’s not contagious’: How to address stigmas about the CF cough

This piece is part of a series about living with invisible illness for Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Read more here. While cystic fibrosis (CF) is an invisible illness, it can be heard.

Read more
May 22, 2025 by Brad Dell

Breathing space: Advocating for CF needs without overexplaining

This is part of a series about living with invisible illness for Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Go here to read more. People don’t need to explain themselves when they need to take a lunch break…

May 15, 2025 by Brad Dell

CF fatigue isn’t laziness: How to build support when CF fatigue exhausts you

Living with cystic fibrosis means battling invisible fatigue and the weight of social assumptions others can’t see — or begin to understand. Raising awareness helps replace judgment with empathy, support, and connection.

May 15, 2025 by Brad Dell

Trusting your body: Guiding doctors to take CF symptoms seriously

Cystic fibrosis affects far more than just the lungs, but symptoms beyond breathing trouble often go overlooked or dismissed. Here’s how to advocate for the full picture of your health — and ensure you get the comprehensive care and attention you deserve.

May 8, 2025 by Brad Dell

‘You don’t look sick’: How to quickly explain CF in difficult situations

Explaining cystic fibrosis on the fly isn’t always easy — but having the right words can help others understand this invisible illness. Here are simple ways to advocate for yourself in any situation.

May 8, 2025 by Brad Dell

CF at work: Talking to employers about cystic fibrosis

Disclosing cystic fibrosis at work can feel daunting, but knowing your rights and preparing the right conversation can ease the process. Here’s how to advocate for the accommodations you need to succeed.

May 1, 2025 by Brad Dell

Training CF allies: Sharing the load in managing invisible illness

Living with cystic fibrosis can feel isolating, but learning to ask for help shouldn’t add to the burden. Here’s how to build a reliable support system that lightens your load and helps you thrive.

May 1, 2025 by Brad Dell

A leveled field: Ensuring equitable education with invisible illness

Balancing cystic fibrosis and school life isn’t easy, but having the right accommodations and support systems in place can make all the difference. Here’s how to advocate for the tools you need to succeed and safeguard your education at every stage.

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