"I try to reassure everyone who has been affected by this disease that CF isn't the end of the world if you don't want it to be."
The experience of living with cystic fibrosis is markedly different today than it was decades ago. Thanks to the discovery of the CF gene, the availability of effective drug therapies and advances in technology, the 30,000 Americans who deal with the disease day in and day out are living longer and fuller lives. In a word, they are thriving.
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Podcast 92: Danny Ferrone - The Power of Exercise

Danny Ferrone, a 26-year-old with cystic fibrosis, lives in Illinois and competes in triathlons. Danny is going to school to be a fitness instructor; he also is the founder of the Fight Forever Foundation.

  • Danny grew up playing baseball, soccer, football, BMX biking and basketball. “My parents believed in keeping me active,” he says. “I returned to school to be a fitness instructor so I can do what I love in life and stay healthy.”
  • Besides vigorous exercise, Danny believes in good nutrition as part of his programs to stay healthy. “I eat a lot of fish, pasta, fruit, veggies, and try and stay away from dairy,” he explains.
  • Danny likes variety in exercise training, so he has added swimming, yoga and boxing (mixed martial arts) to his training routine. Danny has competed in four marathons (best time: 4hours, 18minutes) and four triathlons, including a Half Ironman.
  • The biggest challenge Danny faces related to exercising and CF is dehydration, but his secret is a lot of water, electrolytes and drinking salt water.
  • “Exercising with CF can be uncomfortable, but throw yourself into it and be HONEST with yourself … you will feel better,” he says.
  • Danny’s recommendation to others with CF: “Challenge yourself, keep pushing, and remember you are not alone – fight hard.”

This “LIVING. BREATHING. SUCCEEDING.” Podcast/Vodcast series is the 12th in a series of 12 made possible through an unrestricted educational grant from Genentech to the Boomer Esiason Foundation.

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