Saving yourself by way of advocacy. Living with cystic fibrosis podcast host, Laura Bonnell talks to CF advocate, Amanda Boone about the fight that grew from a threat to her medications in Colorado. Amanda has led the way against the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB). Amanda, who has CF, was struggling prior to 2019 because her health was declining. As a result, she started CF United. It's a grassroots organization that is dedicated to ensuring continued, affordable access to CF therapies.

Amanda Boone I would say is a rock star advocate in the CF and rare disease community. She has cystic fibrosis and lives in Colorado. She truly rose to what I consider fame in the rare community when the Prescription Drug Affordability Drug (PDAB) was introduced in her state.

We're going to talk about the PDAB and all sorts of legislation the Amanda is fighting for, and how it impacts you.

Amanda Boone is an advocate who lives with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a chronic and fatal chronic illness. Prior to 2019 Amanda’s health was declining. Then Trikafta, a CF modulator drug was approved by the FDA. This groundbreaking drug gave Amanda her life back and kept her from needing a lung transplantation. Amanda lost many friends over the years to CF and she carries a profound sense of gratitude for every additional day she lives.

Amanda co-founded CF United, a grassroots organization that is dedicated to ensuring continued, affordable access to CF therapies. Every member is either a patient or caregiver. Prior to CF United, Amanda served on the advocacy board Dell Children's Medical Center in Austin Texas and volunteered with the CF Foundation.

When Trikafta faced affordability challenges through the Prescription Drug Affordability Board (PDAB) in Colorado, CF United emerged as strong advocates, successfully influencing decisions to maintain accessibility. CF United's advocacy goes beyond preserving access; they champion "The Independent Patient Voice." Amanda is committed to ensuring that all patients have access to the treatments they need, and that they get a seat at the table regarding decisions that affect their lives.

In addition to advocacy, Amanda finds solace in her Colorado ranch with her husband son, two dogs and two horses. Amanda copes with her disease with laughter and realism.

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Advocate, Amanda Boone