Lauren Beyenhof, 28, recognizes that cystic fibrosis (CF) has profoundly shaped the choices she has made in life, but it has never defined who she is as an individual.  Diagnosed at birth, Lauren’s positive outlook on CF and all the subsequent challenges she faces, make her an inspiration to everyone around her.

As a professional writing freelancer, Lauren has used her love of writing to reach out to others in the CF community.  She has two CF related blogs: Breathing Deeply and Blogging About CF.  She has also been interviewed by ABC.com for an article about cross-infection in CF patients and had an article featured on Adoption.com about CF newborn screening.

Lauren is committed to maintaining a strict medical routine in order to stay healthy.  She does airway clearance, nebulizer treatment and takes enzymes and multivitamins with every meal.  She also works out with a personal trainer three days a week to improve her lung function, doing cardio machines and lifting weights to improve her upper body strength and to build muscle.

Lauren lives each day by the motto: “You never know how much you can face until you turn around and see that it’s now behind you.”  She attributes her strength and ability to overcome the “humps” in her life to her strong faith in God, the support of her loving husband, Brad, and to her family.

Heroes of HopeT Living with CF recognizes individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) who live full and productive lives while managing their healthcare needs.  To date, Heroes of Hope has honored 50 outstanding individuals with CF in over 35 states.  Heroes of Hope recipients inspire others through their outstanding accomplishments, dedication to health maintenance and contributions to their communities. To learn more about Lauren and to listen to her podcast, click here.

Learn more about Lauren

Click here to access Lauren’s personal Heroes of Hope Web page. www.heroesofhope.com