Finding Filotimo: How a Greek Virtue Became a Mission for Cystic Fibrosis Awareness
Growing up, I was surrounded by a word that didn’t have a direct English translation but shaped every aspect of my life—**filotimo**. A Greek term that embodies honor, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to doing good for others, filotimo was more than just a word in my family; it was a way of life. Little did I know that years later, it would become the heart of my mission to support those living with cystic fibrosis (CF).
A Personal Journey Toward Purpose
My connection to CF is through a personal diagnosis and through the stories of countless individuals and families who battle this disease every day. CF is a genetic, life-shortening condition that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system, making even the simplest acts—like breathing—a daily challenge. Too many children and adults with CF face stigma, barriers to care, and an uncertain future.
Through my journey, I saw that despite incredible medical advancements, too many people are still being left behind. We can’t stand by and watch. That’s when Filotimo Foundation was born—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering and supporting the CF community, raising awareness, and advocating for better care and treatments for everyone affected.
We live in a world where invisible illnesses often go unnoticed, and people with CF sometimes feel like they are fighting an uphill battle alone. That’s why Filotimo Foundation isn’t just about funding research; it’s about building a community where no one faces CF alone.
Breaking Stigmas, Changing Lives
A major part of our mission is removing the stigma associated with cystic fibrosis. Many people don’t realize that CF affects adults as well as children or that the disease varies widely from person to person. By sharing real, personal stories, we hope to reshape the conversation and educate the world about what it truly means to live with CF.
Our foundation works tirelessly to provide financial assistance, emotional support, and advocacy for those who need it most. Whether it’s helping a family afford essential treatments, organizing awareness campaigns, or partnering with organizations to push for policy changes, every action we take is rooted in Filotimo—the deep, personal drive to do good for others.
We’ve come a long way, but the journey is far from over. Until every person with CF has access to the care they deserve, until no one loses their battle too soon, and until there is a cure, we will keep fighting.
If my story and the mission of the Filotimo Foundation resonate with you, I invite you to join us. Whether through donating, advocating, or simply learning more, you can be part of a movement that is changing lives.
Together, we can bring filotimo to the CF community and beyond—because no one should fight this battle alone.
www.filotimofoundation.org or Instagram Filotimo_Foundation
