I remember the first CFRI educational conference I attended. This was decades ago. I was a young adult with CF and had recently moved to the Bay Area from Nebraska. I didn’t know a living soul with CF outside of my family. What I experienced that day was exactly what I needed to feel at home here, and finally talk to other people who ‘got it.’ The warm welcome, the introductions, and of course, the researchers who gave inspiring presentations full of intriguing science and a healthy dash of hope were all exactly what I needed at the time. This was even before the gene that caused cystic fibrosis was identified, so imagine how hard it was to convey optimism! Yet I left with several new friends and more than a shred of belief that these sincere scientists were going to figure this thing out. 

Thirty-eight years later, all of the above will occur over three days at CFRI’s 38th National CF Education Conference, and so much more. We will hear talks about topics of general interest to new and old members of our community such as nucleic acid therapy and where it stands today, aging in CF, inequality to access of care, pain, reproductive health, increased cancer risk, metabolic and other effects of modulator therapy, and a panel discussion about mental health. There will also be a concurrent session with talks about nitty-gritty science by seven of our funded researchers. As a long-time member of the Research Advisory Committee, this has been one of my favorite aspects of the conference year after year. Additionally, there are support groups, inspirational speakers (including glitter), an awards dinner, an auction, and best of all, the dance party. Today, I am eagerly anticipating greeting friends I see in person only once a year.  

When you hear these wonderful speakers and dedicated scientists and you meet inspiring people who are living and thriving with cystic fibrosis, you will completely understand the conference title, “A World of Possibilities.” This year we are moving locations to the beautiful boutique Ameswell Hotel in Mountain View, CA, where innovation, relaxed luxury, and sustainability are the priority. 

I know this sounds like a sales pitch, and it is. You can join us virtually or in person. I urge you to come and join us. We make it safe for everyone.  I’ll be at the Airstream wine bar. 

By: Julie Desch