Model Citizen: Cystic Fibrosis Patient Uses Instagram to Inspire Others

Sophie was born ten weeks premature with cystic fibrosis. Because of this genetic condition, the doctors informed her parents that Sophie would likely only live to be a teenager.

So, what did this mean for her? Cystic fibrosis, or CF, is both incurable and life-limiting. It hinders the mobility of salt and water in and out of cells. As a result, patients of CF, including Sophie, have to deal with the buildup of mucus in the lungs and digestive system, and sometimes other organs as well. Because of this, lung infections are extremely common. Food can also be hard to digest, as the build-up of mucus can halt the enzymes that aid in digestion.