Andrea’s Band proceeds help CF Foundation

At Bolder Band Headbands, we love bold and beautiful women like mother-daughter team Susie and Andrea Rider and their fight against Andrea’s Cystic Fibrosis.  We were so inspired by the Riders’ passion to raise money for Team Andrea’s Angels, part of The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, that we worked with Andrea to create a special Bolder Band Headband called “Andrea’s Band” with some of the proceeds donated to Andrea’s Angels.  “Bolder Band is so excited to partner with Andrea Rider and Andrea's angels to help support those who are living with Cystic Fibrosis,” said Amy Crouse, founder and creator of the year-old company. “Andrea is a beautiful young lady. Her passion for life and the fact that living with this crippling disease has not slowed her down from being a bold beautiful young lady makes us want to tell her story to inspire others and to bring help with those fighting Cystic Fibrosis.”

The 18-year-old Iowa State University freshman was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when she was 4. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, CF is a defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections and other digestive problems. “We found Bolder Bands by another CF mom liking their Facebook page and I started to follow them. I liked all of the colors and patterns... I didn’t just order one Bolder Band, I ordered four!” said Susie.

Andrea fits in studying meteorology, and her two-hour protocol of nebulizer treatments and other medications, while also keeping her lungs healthy by continuing to exercise.  “Since I run, do yoga and play sports the headband is very useful while I am physically active,” Andrea Rider said. “I also really enjoy the different colors and patterns of the headbands.” Exercise is a key therapy and has been a part of Andrea’s life, which included running Cross Country all through high school. She continues her fitness at the gym and through Yoga in between her busy class schedule. “Being active has always increased my lung functions,” Andrea said, “which helps prevent the negative effects CF throws my way.” Her favorite things to do are yoga, swimming, and playing sports.

“Amy has been so helpful and kind but she has no immediate connection to anyone with CF,” said Susie of Amy’s efforts to get a special Bolder Band made for CF fund-raising. “I followed the company and all that they are doing and how they are growing and I was impressed.”  In its 13 years, Team Andrea’s Angels has raised about $175,000 for CF through different fund-raisers and letter-writing campaigns.  “I hope to spread awareness for those who don't know what CF is and to raise money in order for people living with CF to live easier lives,” Andrea said. “Most importantly I want CF to stand for 'Cure Found.'”