January 2010

Joan Finnegan Brooks

“I have never viewed CF as a burden.”

I am 49 years old, and I grew up in Sleepy Hollow, N.Y.  Born with CF in 1960, I was given less than 10 years to live.  My mother and father instilled independence and responsibility in me at a young age, and I learned to do all of my therapies and take care of myself by the time I reached high school.  I have never viewed CF as a burden; it is something that is built into my every day routine.

Exercise is one of the most important factors in my life and staying healthy with CF.  I discovered the wonders of exercise in high school while playing field hockey.  As a result of all the running on the field, my lungs would clear and I could breathe easier.  Since then, I have run – I’ve completed a marathon and several half-marathons.  I also enjoy dancing and cycling.

I attended Brown University and graduated with a degree in economics.  I live in the Boston area with my husband of 20 years. I work full-time, managing my own consulting practice.  I also volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, as giving back to the community is very important to me.  For 49 years, I have successfully managed CF and remained optimistic the entire time.  I intend to possess that attitude well into the future.

Favorite Holiday: Christmas
Favorite Food: Mashed potatoes
Favorite Pastime: Sudoku
Favorite Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Favorite Color: Green
Dream Vacation: Italy
You can find Joan on … Facebook