Amy Carter's Story
in three years Amy raised $31,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Amy Carter has cerebral palsy but spends much of her time fighting for those with cystic fibrosis.

Cerebral palsy causes Carter, 34, to be confined to a wheelchair and talk with a slur, and an autonomic nervous system dysfunction causes her to experience burning sensations and pain. Ask her why she raises money for cystic fibrosis, and she has a quick and heartfelt answer.

"I can't walk, but they can't breathe," Carter said.

(photo L-R) Tombrello, Amy and her parents, Carol & Steve Carter

Cystic fibrosis is when a defective gene and its protein product causes the body to produce unusually thick and sticky mucus, clogging lungs and leading to infections.

Cerebral Palsy can occur in the womb or the first two years of life because of brain abnormalities or brain injuries. The disorder impacts the nervous system functions such as movement, learning, hearing, seeing and thinking.

Carter's mission to fight for those who struggle to breath began when she read a book by former Sports Illustrated writer Frank DeFord, called, "Alex: The Life of a Child." DeFord wrote the book about his daughter Alex, who died from cystic fibrosis.

"We've read that book over and over," said Amy Carter's mother, Carol Carter. "We've watched the movie over and over. She couldn't stop thinking about Alex."

Amy Carter began researching cystic fibrosis. She can explain treatments, new medications and symptoms. She started attending the Huntsville Great Strides fundraiser walk each year. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Alabama Executive Director Pam Ogg said Amy Carter shows up for the walk even if it is raining, and she brings with her containers filled with cash and change.

But Amy Carter still wanted to do more. She has spent the last three years raising $31,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. The Alabama chapter's board chairman, Paul Tombrello, and Ogg came to Athens in October to present Carter with an award and flowers for her efforts.

"I have a daughter with cystic fibrosis, and when I found out what Amy had done and how she has her own health battles, I was blown away," Tombrello said.

Amy Carter was able to raise much of the funds by writing a letter to the Alabama Natural Gas Association. Her father, Steve Carter, is manager of the City of Athens Gas Department and a member of ANGA.

"Hearing stories about families like the DeFords has put a burden on my heart," Amy Carter wrote in her letter. "There are thousands of families who have suffered and continue to suffer from the ugly grip of cystic fibrosis."

Her letter led to ANGA featuring the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for its silent auction during its annual meeting. Members bid on beach vacations, sports memorabilia and other items. Steve Carter said an Alabama football he donated went for $2,300.

"People were bidding more than you would normally pay for these items to raise this money," Steve Carter said. "I think this is the most our silent auction has ever raised for a charity."

His daughter is not satisfied with her accomplishment. When asked about her next project, she replied, "CF, CF, CF. It will be CF until there is a cure."
 

October 31st, 2011
Holly Hollman
Grant Coordinator/Communications Specialist
City of Athens
256-262-1399