For those that don’t already know, here is our story…

Our daughter (Penny, age 4) has a life limiting condition called Cystic Fibrosis. She was diagnosed in October 2021 (age 2 at the time), and our whole worlds were turned upside down. She had been suffering her whole life with various issue like not growing properly or gaining weight, awful coughing fits, breathing difficulties, being sick, and not to mention her extreme poo’s (hence her well-known nickname of Penny Poopy Pants!). So whilst we were relieved to finally have a diagnosis, we weren’t quite prepared for the diagnosis of CF. 

CF is genetic condition which affects the lungs and digestive system due to thick sticky mucus. Over time these organs become damaged, and eventually they can stop working altogether. Everyone is different, but in Penny’s case, she is also Pancreatic Insufficient (can’t digest food properly) and has liver problems too. 

Penny’s daily life is a lot busier than your average 4 year old - she takes at least 6-7 medicines several times a day, she does physio therapy with nebulised medicines twice a day, she has to stay as active as possible throughout the day, and she visits her team at the hospital every 2 months at least. 

Without the love and support from our friends and family, without the help of her amazing team at the hospital, and without a charity like the CF Trust constantly researching and campaigning for all the magic medicines… I don’t know where we’d be today. Our future would feel hopeless.

But instead we are now almost 2 years in to CF life and we are SMASHING IT. Don’t get me wrong, me & James still have our moments privately where we share our fear and thoughts of the future (it’s only normal)…. But Penny is like a different child - just shows all those medicines are working their magic, she’s catching up with her peers physically and excelling them mentally. She’s the strongest bravest wee girl we know. And she’s so happy! And sassy!! Haha. 

So here we are, raising money for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust - they are such an incredible charity that are constantly striving for a life unlimited for people with CF. Here’s a link to their website if you’d like more information https://www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk .

On Saturday 24th June 2023, 2 of our best friends are running a half marathon for this amazing cause… and we will be waiting at the finish line to celebrate with them and enjoy PENNY’S BIG YELLOW FUN DAY - activities include bouncy castle, cake sale, plant sale, face paints, colouring competition, raffle (with some amazing prizes).. and much more!! 12-4pm, Sharland Hall, RAF Benson. Please come and bring all the fam! 

If you can’t make it, please spare a PENNY or two (get it?? Haha)… only if you can! For our amazing charity, and help us fight for a life unlimited. It would mean the world to us.