Detroit Lions VP raises awareness for daughter’s rare disease

Detroit Lions VP Raises Awareness for Daughter’s Rare Disease

March 1, 2025 – Detroit, Michigan – The Vice President of the Detroit Lions, John Smith, is using his platform to raise awareness for a rare and life-threatening disease that has deeply affected his family. Smith’s daughter, Emma, has been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder, Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a condition that affects the lungs and digestive system. With the support of his team, Smith is dedicating his efforts to increase awareness and funding for research into the disease, hoping to bring attention to the importance of medical research and support for families impacted by similar conditions.

Cystic Fibrosis is a chronic disease that leads to the buildup of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs, which can result in life-threatening respiratory infections. The disorder also affects the pancreas, preventing the body from properly absorbing nutrients. Although treatments have improved in recent years, there is still no cure, making early detection and continuous treatment essential.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Smith explained the personal impact of Emma’s diagnosis on his family and how it has shaped his perspective on life. He expressed gratitude for the medical professionals and research initiatives that have made a difference in Emma’s care and survival, but he also emphasized the critical need for continued support to find a cure.

“Raising awareness about Cystic Fibrosis isn’t just about finding a cure,” Smith wrote in his post. “It’s about bringing hope to families facing similar challenges and reminding them they’re not alone in their fight. Every donation, every moment of attention to this cause, helps bring us closer to a world where diseases like CF no longer hold our children back from a full life.”

The Detroit Lions have been supportive of Smith’s efforts, with the team planning to host fundraising events, including a charity auction and awareness night, to support CF research and the families affected by the disease. The Lions organization is also working with various CF foundations, aiming to fund projects that could bring groundbreaking treatments to light.

Smith’s work has sparked a ripple effect in the sports community, inspiring others to use their platforms for similar causes. Not only has he raised awareness for CF, but his efforts have encouraged fans, players, and other team executives to get involved in making a difference.

As Smith continues to advocate for his daughter and others affected by rare diseases, his story serves as a reminder of the power of sports in uniting communities for causes that extend far beyond the field. The ongoing efforts will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the fight against Cystic Fibrosis.