GREENFIELD, Wis. — Renee Segel said she loves being a mom. Her daughter Ella keeps her busy while her son Hunter is in school. 

While being a parent can be challenging, Segel works extra hard to keep herself healthy. That’s because she was born with cystic fibrosis.

“Cystic fibrosis is a chronic lung condition,” said Segel. “It is heredity. It does affect not only the lungs... but it can digestively affect you and that’s what I have moreso than the lungs. My lungs have been clear since day one.” 

Segnel works to improve her digestive challenges. She’s also developed type 1 diabetes which is common among people with cystic fibrosis.

Luckily, she said she’s been able to avoid hospitalizations because she’s so diligent about germs.

“Always want to be sanitizing everything especially with them bringing stuff home we have to watch and be extra carful when they come home with a common cold,” said Segel. “If I catch that it can be detrimental to my lungs and end up being in the hospital.” 

Between staying active and taking her medications she’s been able to live a normal life.

“Active is the best,” said Segel. “To be more active and keep those airwaves clean and keeping those secretions out is what they want.” 

Part of her regular activity includes advocating for others with cystic fibrosis, which is commonly referred to as CF.

“This last month they had the CF walk downtown and that’s Great Strides,” said Segel. “I’ve done every year as long as I could remember. I even think I was in a stroller at the county zoo when my mom was pushing me. I love it we donate so much money to the CF Foundation; they’re great. That’s how they’re able to do all the new drugs and research and how they’re able to get it out to people with cystic fibrosis.” 

Segel hopes CF will soon become the initials for something else: Cure found.