Famous People with Cystic Fibrosis: Advocates, Athletes & Artists

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease causing thick mucus in lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Life expectancy has risen dramatically (now ~50+ years in developed nations) due to CFTR modulators and comprehensive care. Notable individuals who have lived with CF:

• Claire Wineland (1997–2018): Activist, speaker, founder of Claire's Place Foundation; inspired millions with her candid videos on living with CF.
• Grant Gustin: Actor (The Flash); diagnosed as child, manages with treatment.
• Ryan O'Nan: Former minor league baseball pitcher; advocate for organ donation.
• James Roday Rodriguez: Actor (Psych); public about CF since 2020.
• Katie Davis Majors: Founder of Amazima Ministries (Uganda); adopted 13 daughters; lives with CF.
• Natalie Mordovtseva: Reality TV (90 Day Fiancé); shares CF journey.
• Hannah Brown: Reality TV (The Bachelorette); diagnosed later in life.
• Michael J. Pollard (1939–2019): Character actor (Bonnie and Clyde); lived decades with CF.
• Stephenie Meyer: Author (Twilight); has spoken about CF in family (not personally confirmed as patient—correction: she has a sibling with CF; she is a carrier/advocate).
• Brittany Maynard (1984–2014): Right-to-die advocate; had terminal brain cancer, not CF (correction: often misattributed).

Note: Some online lists contain inaccuracies. CF presentation varies widely. New modulator therapies (Trikafta/Kaftrio) are transforming outcomes for 90% of patients with F508del mutation.