April 2009

Jerry Cahill

“CF is like being in a battle zone during wartime. There will always be many tough challenges to face, but you just have to do your best and be prepared to keep fighting.”

Since being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age 11, I have viewed my CF with this type of tough stance.  After being diagnosed with CF, my family didn’t treat me any differently, which I believe is one of the biggest reasons I am living, breathing and succeeding with CF today at age 52. 

At a very young age, the importance of exercise and sports were taught to me.  I have four brothers, and growing up I played every sport they did, whether it was baseball or football or basketball.  My family helped me realize that through exercise I can live a healthier life which would permit me to live like everyone else. 

I was able to enjoy a successful career as the vice president of a large men’s designer sportswear company.  In addition, I have competed at the national level in the pole vault, with a personal best of 16’ 10”, and I have completed two New York City marathons.

I currently live in Brooklyn, N.Y., and am a volunteer at the Boomer Esiason Foundation. I lead the Foundation’s scholarship and grants division and am the founder of Team Boomer, an athletic organization dedicated to encouraging exercise among CF patients while simultaneously raising money for scholarships.  I enjoy coaching pole-vaulting at Iona Prep High School in New Rochelle, N.Y., riding my bike, swimming and lifting weights.

I am very disciplined in taking care of my health and doing my therapies so I can experience life to the fullest!

Proudest Moment: Pole vaulting 16’ 10”
Favorite Food: Italian
Favorite Color: Blue
Nickname: BigAir
One Word to Describe You: Competitive
Favorite Holiday: Halloween
Dream Vacation: Italy
Favorite Music: Reggae
You can find Jerry on ... Facebook, MySpace, www.jerrycahill.com, www.myteamboomer.com, www.cysticfibrosis.com