The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in partnership with Walgreens, recently concluded a successful fundraising campaign across 160 Walgreens stores in the Tampa area, raising nearly $130,000 to support critical research, care, and drug development for cystic fibrosis (CF). The campaign ran from August 17th to August 30th, and the generosity of Walgreens customers was instrumental in driving this remarkable outcome. To mark the beginning of this impactful initiative, a special celebration was held on Friday, August 23rd, at Walgreens Store #2975 at 15602 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.
The event honored one of the campaign’s youngest champions, Ronan, a 5-year-old with cystic fibrosis who dreams of becoming a police officer. The Tampa Bay Police Department made Ronan’s birthday unforgettable, welcoming him to Walgreens, singing “Happy Birthday,” and even allowing him to sit in a police car and turn on the siren—fulfilling his childhood dream.
“Seeing Ronan’s excitement surrounded by his heroes from the Tampa Police Department was the perfect way to kick off this campaign,” said Ryan Reid, executive director at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “It was a moment of pure joy, but also a powerful reminder of why this campaign matters—to bring vital research and hope to families impacted by CF.”
Ronan and his family attended the celebration to thank the Walgreens staff and customers for their generosity. The police officers’ participation and warm welcome made Ronan’s birthday extraordinary. The department’s involvement added a personal touch to the campaign, symbolizing the community’s collective effort to fight cystic fibrosis and improve the lives of those affected.
With each store championing an individual CF child or family, Walgreens’ support in the Tampa area strengthened the connection between the community and the Foundation’s mission. “Ronan and individuals like him are living proof of the progress being made in the fight against CF,” added Ryan Reid. “Thanks to the unwavering support from Walgreens and the Tampa Bay community, we are getting closer every day to finding a cure for this disease.”
Over the past 30 years, the life expectancy of individuals with cystic fibrosis has increased from 18 to 61 years due to medical advancements and the continued support of organizations like the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
About the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive systems of approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. The Foundation funds groundbreaking research, drug development, and high-quality, specialized care that has added decades of life for people with CF. Our mission is to cure cystic fibrosis and provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research, partnering with the CF community, and advancing care. To learn more or to donate, visit www.cff.org.
