Cure4CF Update
Running for Breath: Kyle’s Journey from CF Diagnosis to Ultra Marathons
When Kyle laces up his running shoes, he is not just preparing for another training session, he is fighting for his health, his future, and the dream of a world without cystic fibrosis.
“I’ve been living with CF since birth. I’m almost 39 years old, a father of two beautiful daughters, and damn proud of it,” Kyle says.
From a Kick in the Bum to Ultra Marathons
Kyle’s love for running began in his late teens, thanks to his dad.
“Back when I was about 16 to 18, my lungs were slowly declining. My dad suggested we run the City-Bay together. It was a much-needed kick in the bum to get out and work my lungs, and it started my journey into running.”
Over the years, Kyle took on obstacle races like True Grit, Tough Mudder, and Spartan events before discovering his passion for long-distance trail running. Today, he is an ultra-marathoner, having completed two 50km trail runs and a 112km trail ultra.
Running with CF: Strength and Strategy
Running is challenging enough, but doing it with CF adds another layer.
“Since I was 25, my lung function has hovered around 65 percent, going up and down depending on infections. Running forces me to breathe hard and deep. Add in some huffs and coughs, and you have a great physio session.”
But managing CF while training requires extra planning. Kyle has to monitor hydration and electrolyte balance closely.
“CF people sweat a lot. I always take salt tablets before a run and use electrolytes after, especially on hot days. I also adjust my runs depending on how my lungs feel, sometimes it’s not about running fast, it’s just about keeping the air moving.”
The Physical and Mental Payoff
Kyle knows firsthand how running impacts his health.
“In 2022, I injured my leg and stopped running. My lung function dropped from 67 percent to 58 percent. That scared me. I started running again, and within months, my lung function was back to 67 percent.”
The benefits are not just physical.
“Running gives me endorphins, the happy hormone. It is my therapy. Sometimes it’s not about health or fitness. Sometimes it’s just therapy.”
Joining Callum’s Crew
Kyle has a history with fellow CF advocate Callum, including a memorable exercise bike challenge years ago.
“Callum had to wear a snorkel to simulate breathing like someone with CF. I just managed to beat him, so why not join him again to raise money and awareness for Cure4CF?”
Training for City-Bay
Kyle’s training schedule is varied and community-driven, from group runs and interval training to parkruns and long, slow Sunday sessions.
“Training shouldn’t be a chore. Mixing it up keeps it fun, and running with others makes it even better.”
Kyle’s Tips for New Runners
- Get proper shoes — they are worth it to prevent injuries.
- Run with a friend — it makes the time fly.
- Start slow — try run/walk intervals and build up gradually.
- Stick with it — one day, the run that once felt impossible will feel easy.
Digging Deep on the Tough Days
“When a run gets hard, I think about friends I’ve lost to CF and my family. I run because they can’t. I run to stay here longer for the people I love.”
A Future Without CF
For Kyle, imagining a cure is imagining:
- Freedom from breathlessness — no more coughing fits or fear from a simple cold.
- Time returned — hours once spent on treatment given back to life.
- Uncomplicated strength — fitness without fighting illness.
- Peace for families — no more worry or advocacy battles.
- A scientific victory — proof that all the research and fundraising worked.
This City-Bay Fun Run, Kyle is running for every breath, for himself, for his family, and for a future without CF.
You can help make that future possible.
Donate to support Kyle and Callum’s Crew for Cure4CF