Being a CFI Ambassador

Each year, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland carry out numerous awareness, advocacy and fundraising campaigns. Patient stories and testimonials from the CF Community, as well as those from familes living with CF are key to these campaigns and are crucial in communicating the impact of cystic fibrosis to the public. But what does being an Ambassador involve? Chris Coburn, CF Ambassador and PWCF shares his experience with you here...

Tell us a little about yourself....

My Name is Chris Coburn I’m 30 years old and I work as a full-time strength and conditioning coach. I am also setting up a coaching academy in Dublin in January to train in new personal trainers in order to improve the quality of trainers in Dublin.

Why did you become a CF Ambassador?

I did it to help spread positive stories about CF so that people know that it’s not all doom and gloom around the illness. I wanted to be able to show parents of young children with CF what is possible for their children to do and to try inspire the children themselves to not let their CF take over their whole lives.

How did you become a CF Ambassador?

I became an Ambassador in early 2022 when CF Ireland asked me would I be interested in telling my story. I said I would as it shows that there is light at the end of the tunnel with CF. I completed an Ambassador Application form, from that my bio was written for me to change or approve and once that was done, CFI could use it to give to the media and all I had to do was wait for opportunities to tell my story came up.

What is expected of you as an Ambassador?

So far, I have done a couple of interviews and social media activity relating to CF. It takes very little - the interviews were about 20 minutes each and the social media stuff takes no time at all.

How does being a CF Ambassador impact you?

It’s a very rewarding experience. I have got quite a few messages from parents of children with CF saying that they showed their child my interviews and videos and they helped them fell more positive about their CF.

Would you encourage others to become CF Ambassadors?

Absolutely, It doesn’t take much time and if you can help even one person feel better about their CF then it’s 100% worth it!

To follow Chris's CF and lifestyle journey, follow his Insgram page - chris.coburn.91. CFI are currently recruiting for Ambassadors for 2023. If you would like to know more contact Nicola on ndelaneyfoxe@cfireland.ie