Paddling Against All Odds: Rylee’s Journey to Make History for Cystic Fibrosis

Anyone that knows Rylee Marie Walker knows just truly how funny, passionate, caring, and loving she is. She can make any room brighter just by walking into it. This year Rylee is attempting to become the first woman with Cystic Fibrosis to complete The Crossing for CF – an 80 mile endurance challenge from Bimini, the Bahamas to Lake Worth, Florida.  Every single day she has had to fight for her life, being diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at a young age. Now more than ever Rylee is making her voice loud by sharing her story through a documentary and advocating for the CF community by training hard for this years upcoming crossing.

Welcome back to TotalSUP today Rylee! We are stoked to hear you’re going to participate in the crossing again this year! What inspired you to come back for the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis event this June?

The unpredictable nature of cystic fibrosis (CF) has always been a driving force for me. When the event in 2024 was changed due to the weather, it reminded me just how uncertain life with CF can be. But rather than feeling defeated, I knew my journey wasn’t over. The weather may have worked against us, but I saw it as a sign that bigger things were on the horizon. It gave me an extra year to train, not only to become physically stronger but mentally tougher as well.

Every single day, someone with CF faces life-changing challenges as this chronic illness tries to take control. But I refuse to let it define me. I’m motivated to keep fighting, not just for my own goals, but to raise awareness and show others living with chronic illnesses that they, too, can keep pushing forward. Together, we can prove that strength lies in perseverance, no matter what obstacles come our way.

Strength truly does lie in perseverance! What specific goals do you have for this year’s crossing, both personally and in terms of raising awareness for cystic fibrosis?

My personal goal is to make history by becoming the first woman with cystic fibrosis to paddle the full 80 miles. While others have attempted it, no one has completed this journey—until now. Not only will I make history, but I will also show women with CF that we are capable of achieving extraordinary things. We can tackle the impossible, like paddling across the ocean, and prove that no challenge is too great when we push beyond our limits.

We are looking forward to watching you make history! What has your training looked like this year? Have you changed your training routine from last year?

From last year to this year, one major shift I’ve embraced is consistently working out in the gym. The results have been undeniable—I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my paddling, thanks to the added strength in my muscles. As someone with cystic fibrosis, gaining weight and building muscle can be a real challenge, since we often struggle to absorb the nutrients from the food we eat. With that in mind, I’ve focused on creating a nutritious eating plan to help build and maintain muscle. While I wouldn’t say my approach has drastically changed, this year has been far more motivating than the last. I truly believe that this is the year history will be made, and that belief fuels me every single day, pushing me forward toward my goals.

That is fantastic! Can you discuss some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in living with cystic fibrosis and how you’ve overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges I continue to face is the constant question: “Is what I’m doing enough?”. With a short life expectancy hanging over me from such a young age, I’ve always felt the weight of wanting to live a life that reflects all the sacrifices and hard work those around me have put in. I’ve pushed myself harder than I ever thought possible, putting my best foot forward and testing my limits, fighting against the odds that cystic fibrosis has set in front of me.

As medical advances in the CF community continue to evolve, the once distant dreams of getting married, becoming a mom, and watching my children grow up are starting to feel like a real possibility. Now at 25, I’m still here—still fighting every single day, still pushing my body past its breaking point. Every step I take is a declaration that I am worthy of these dreams, and I’m determined to make them a reality. For myself, and for everyone who’s ever fought beside me, I will never stop striving for the life I deserve.

What message do you hope to convey to others about cystic fibrosis through your participation in this event? We also heard you’re working on a documentary this year? Tell us a bit about that!

The message I want to share this year is simple yet powerful: no matter the labels you’ve been given, no matter the cards you’ve been dealt, no matter the mountains standing in your way—you are capable of defying them all and achieving the extraordinary. Life throws challenges at everyone, ones that can shift the course of our future. But every step forward, no matter how small, brings us closer to our dreams, closer to that moment where we realize we’ve conquered it all. Keep going, because the impossible is waiting for you to prove it wrong.

This year, I’m partnering with Andrew Nycz to create a powerful documentary that will not only bring awareness to the cystic fibrosis community but also inspire anyone who’s ever been defined by labels. The documentary, Against All Odds, tells the story of my life growing up with CF, the intense journey of training to paddle across the ocean, and my mission to make history. But more than that, it’s a testament to the fact that no matter what challenges or obstacles life throws at you, you have the strength within to achieve greatness. This film is proof that with relentless determination, anything is possible—even the impossible.

We cannot wait to see the film when it’s done! How has your support system, including friends and family, contributed to your journey and this upcoming challenge?

My support system—my friends, family, and everyone who believes in me—has been absolutely everything in this journey. They are the ones who have been there through every high and low, always encouraging me when things get tough. From the moments of doubt to the days when I didn’t think I could push through, they’ve been my constant cheerleaders, offering their love, strength, and belief in me when I couldn’t believe in myself. Each training session, each step closer to my goal, has been made possible because of them. Their unwavering support fuels me, reminds me that I’m not in this alone, and gives me the courage to face this challenge head-on. Knowing they’re behind me makes every mile of this journey more meaningful. This isn’t just my challenge—it’s ours. They’ve given me the foundation to chase this dream, and together, we’re going to make it happen. It’s their love and belief in me that will carry me across the finish line!

The moment you cross the finish line will be one to remember, and I bet your friends and family will be extremely proud! What advice would you give to other young people who are also living with CF?

To other young people living with cystic fibrosis, my advice is simple: never let CF define your limits. You are so much more than this condition. Yes, it can be tough, and some days will feel impossible, but remember, every challenge is an opportunity to prove your strength. Take each day one step at a time and focus on what you can do, not what CF might hold you back from.

Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t be afraid to chase the things that set your soul on fire, no matter how big or small they may seem. Your dreams are valid, and they are within reach—trust in your resilience, because you’re stronger than you think. And remember, it’s okay to have bad days, just never give up on the good ones. You’ve got this, and the world needs your story, your courage, and your spirit. Keep fighting, keep dreaming, and keep living boldly.

How can the community support you in your efforts to raise awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis?

There are so many powerful ways people can make a difference in this fight. One of the most impactful ways is to donate to the Against All Odds film fundraiser. Your support will help bring this film to life, telling a story of resilience and hope, while raising awareness for cystic fibrosis in a way that can change the future for those living with the disease.

Another way is to share the incredible work the Piper’s Angels Foundation is doing. This organization has been a lifeline for so many, providing support, resources, and a sense of community to those battling CF at every stage. By spreading the word about their mission, you’re helping create a ripple effect of hope and possibility for people living with CF.

Educating others about CF is just as important. When people understand what cystic fibrosis truly is, it sparks empathy, awareness, and action. The more we talk about it, the more people can come together to advocate for those who need it most.

And for those who feel inspired to take it a step further—take that leap of faith and paddle across the ocean in the Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis. Yes, it sounds daunting, but just like with CF, sometimes the most incredible things happen when you push past the impossible. By taking that leap, you’ll be showing the world that with unwavering determination, anything is achievable.

Together, we can make a difference. Each donation, each shared story, and each brave step forward will help turn Against All Odds into more than just a film—it will become a movement. And with your help, we will continue to prove that no obstacle is too great to overcome.

What are your hopes for the future of cystic fibrosis treatment and research, and how do you envision your role in that journey?

I truly believe that in my lifetime, there will be another incredible medical advancement for cystic fibrosis. It may not be the complete cure we all dream of, but I know we will be one step closer to a future where CF stands for Cure Found. More than just hope, I see myself playing a role in the future of CF, not only by being part of the change but by inspiring generations to come. CF may not stand for Cure Found just yet, but it will always stand for Courage Found—a testament to the strength we find within ourselves, even on the toughest days.

One of my biggest goals is to shine a light on the work that the Piper’s Angels Foundation is doing to support those with CF, at every stage of their journey. The foundation has been instrumental in helping shape the person I am today, and I truly believe it has the power to change the lives of countless others—with CF and beyond. Through their unwavering support, I’ve seen firsthand how their work transforms hope into action, and I’m committed to spreading that message to ensure others receive the same life-changing help and inspiration.

Thank you for sharing your story with us Rylee! We look forward to watching you make history and re-define for those with CF whats truly possible!

To find out more about The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis visit www.crossingforcysticfibrosis.com

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