December 2009

Kurt Zimmerman

“If I am studying, I use my treatments as a study break.  Or if I am hanging out and watching a movie, I will put my vest on.”

I am 21 years old and was born in Pittsburgh, Penn.  When I was young, my family moved to Denver, Colo., but we eventually settled in Sacramento, Calif.  I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of seven after my mother discovered I had nasal polyps.  Growing up, I was always compliant with my treatments, and I enjoy biking to stay healthy. 

I currently attend the University of California - Los Angeles, where I am studying rocket science.  I intend to graduate and perhaps pursue a career at NASA.  While I have a busy schedule at school, I still make time to for my treatments.  For example, if I am studying, I use my treatments as a study break.  Or if I am hanging out and watching a movie, I will put my vest on. 

Some of my hobbies include hanging out with friends, skiing, watching movies and of course, my passion; rockets.  I am in the Rocket Club at UCLA, and intend to get an internship in this field while continuing to pursue my degree in rocket science. 

Favorite Holiday: Christmas
Favorite Food: Sushi
Favorite Movie: Apollo 13
Favorite Color: Green
Role Model: Parents
Dream Vacation: Skiing in the Canadian Rockies
You can find Kurt on … Facebook

Dan Palumbo

“Music continues to be a large part of my life, and I currently play the guitar and keyboard and enjoy writing.”

I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth and given one year to live.  For 53 years, I have continued to beat that diagnosis.  Growing up in Dupont, Penn., CF did not determine who I was. As a child, my parents got me involved with sports and exercise, similar to my peers.  They also introduced me to the drums, which raised my interest in music while allowing me to move about and exercise.  Music continues to be a large part of my life, and I currently play the guitar and keyboard and enjoy writing. 

I attended school at Kings College and upon graduation, I founded an ad agency called Dan Palumbo Advertising.  I have been working for 30 years doing a range of advertising that includes television, radio and printing. 

I am married and have two wonderful children who both went to college and law school.  I stay compliant with treatments so I can live life to the fullest and take care of my family.  Due to digestive problems, I always eat healthy and continue to exercise on the treadmill every week.  When I decide to retire, I would like to focus my efforts on volunteer work and raising awareness for cystic fibrosis. 

Favorite Holiday: Christmas
Favorite Food: Italian
Favorite Pastime: Music
Favorite Movie: Tommy Boy
Favorite Color: Blue
Dream Vacation: Italy with family
You can find Dan on … Facebook

December 2009

Casey Flaherty

“In completing the [New York City] marathon, I proved that CF will not prevent me from achieving my goals.”

I am 26 years old living in New York City.  I am currently a full-time nursing student at CUNY Hunter in Manhattan.  I decided to pursue nursing after meeting so many wonderful nurses during my experiences in and out of the hospital, and it is a career that that will allow me to take care of others but also to dedicate time to my own health

To keep in shape, I enjoy yoga and running outdoors.  I recently ran for Team Boomer in the ING NYC Marathon and completed the race in 4:23:17.  In completing the marathon, I proved that CF will not prevent me from achieving my goals.  I also hoped that by running, I was able to inspire others with CF to take on a goal that will improve their health.

For me, running is the most effective form of airway clearance possible.  I continue to exercise every day to remain healthy, and I encourage all people with CF to get out there and clear their lungs through exercise.  I am fortunate to have a wonderful family and support system, and I am enjoying life while pursing my nursing degree.

Favorite Holiday: Christmas
Favorite Pastime: Running
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite Movie: Love Actually
One Word that Describes You: Determined
Favorite Color: Green
Dream Vacation: Bora Bora
You can find Casey on … Facebook