Chantal Fosty gets going when she hears her six-year-old daughter laugh.
As the mother of a child with cystic fibrosis, Fosty has completely changed her life in order to navigate countless appointments and any challenges that come her way.
“Cystic fibrosis is classified as one of the most common fatal genetic disorders,” says Fosty.
“[My daughter] has to take 30 pills and about three hours of lung therapy every day. Her digestive system does not work correctly so she has to take digestive enzymes in order to digest food and nutrients. These pills are essential for survival. We are also running into liver problems. But, you know what, I am okay. I feel like this is simply the way life is for me, and we have to do these things every day, otherwise her health declines. I am a mother, and she is my daughter.”
In the past few years, Fosty has moved her family from Peace River to Airdrie in order to be closer to a children’s hospital. She is also studying to become a nurse in order to better care for her daughter and support others.
Nominator Chelsie Dowler says Fosty has demonstrated unmatched resilience and optimism.
“Her unwavering mental and strength in the face of relentless challenges is truly inspiring,” says Dowler.
“Despite the hurdles, she emanates healing, strength, and hope to me and all those around her, even on her most challenging days.”