Christina Strong
“My dream is to breathe easy, just like the rest of you.”
Christina Davidson was 6-months-old when she was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. Since then, she’s had endless hospital visits, undergone countless surgeries, and lost too many loved ones. After sharing a video on Facebook, she quickly gained national media attention and has touched the hearts of millions. While in and out of the hospital herself, Christina has become an advocate for those battling the incurable disease. These trials and tribulations haven’t stopped her and frankly, it seems like nothing can.
Christina’s story first surfaced back in 2014 with a heart wrenching video begging for others to help. After years of silence and an aching desire to be “normal,” she made the decision to share the truth. The then 23-year-old Nashville resident posted a silent video on Facebook, allowing hand-written signs to display her message. She was tired of living her reality in secret. While her mother recorded her, she flipped through the cards one by one…
“When I was 6 months old I got life-changing news.
I was diagnosed with a life threatening illness!
I have cystic fibrosis.”
Little did she know, the video would get an astonishing 20 million views. Her story went viral. For the first time, people began recognizing the hardships that those with the disease face. It was an eyeopening experience about a world they knew little about. People were moved by her raw emotions, and unwavering amount strength. Christina was featured in national publications such as People Magazine, Today, and The Home and Family Show.
So what did Christina do? She used her national presence to draw attention to cystic fibrosis, the disease she knows all too well.
In addition to her impressive outreach, she continued this momentum by creating her own nonprofit organization, The Christina Davidson Foundation. Established in 2014, their mission is to create awareness and help with patient needs. They follow this promise by using their donations to financially supporting three individuals per year who need assistance with their medical expenses. The annual health care costs for those fighting the disease ranges from anywhere between $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the severity of their diagnosis.
Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease that damages the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. The condition is incurable and causes persistent lung infections, ultimately limiting one’s ability to breathe. Typically those with cystic fibrosis can live a relatively normal life. However cystic fibrosis requires daily care, and the life expectancy is mid-to-late 30’s. Since cystic fibrosis receives no government funding, there seems to be no cure in sight. However, enthusiastic and passionate individuals like Christina give hundreds of people hope.
“One day, I’ll rely on you guys to save my life and help me get new lungs.” — Christina Davidson
That day is today.
Christina needs help. It’s our turn to support her, raise money, and do everything we can do to combat cystic fibrosis. Currently she is waiting for a lung transplant, as infections have taken over her lungs. Until then, doctors are doing everything they can to prescribe the right antibiotics.
One way that her coworkers have decided to contribute is by using Ink to the People. In an effort to raise money, they’ve launched a “Christina Strong” campaign to help cover her medical expenses. The short phrase is more than catchy, it preaches the unity she shares among her work team. It symbolizes the strength she already obtains to tackle the obstacles she faces. Offered in grey and purple, the t-shirts match the Christina Davidson Foundation logo and represents the boldness of who she is. “Christina Strong” echos her in many ways but one thing is certain: she’s powerful and takes on every obstacle with a smile.
Christina’s endured unthinkable things and continues to remain positive. For her, cystic fibrosis is a curse and a blessing. “A curse because it’s destroying my body and my lungs,” the cards read, “a blessing because I know how to live everyday like it’s my last.”
May is National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. Join the thousands of individuals who come together to raise awareness about this life-threatening condition. Since there is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis, let’s unite to make a difference in the lives of those who have the disease.
