Family, friends and supporters gathered in Estevan yesterday to celebrate Kasey McIntyre’s dedication to raising awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis.
The atmosphere was one of gratitude and inspiration as McIntyre and her family received Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s 2024 Mila Mulroney Award. The national honour recognizes families affected by cystic fibrosis who have made lasting contributions through advocacy and fundraising.
“It still didn’t feel real until this week,” McIntyre said. “Even though we’d been communicating about it for months, it was a little hard to believe. The day came together so wonderfully. It was such a special moment to celebrate with the people who have stood by us every step of the way.”
The family has led the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History in the community for more than a decade. They’ve also organized events including lemonade stands, Burger for a Cause and the Princess Ball.
“Our family works very hard all year raising awareness of cystic fibrosis,” McIntyre said during the event. “I’m so honoured by the many people who stand behind us and share our passion. Their support gives me the strength to keep going.”
McIntyre said it was especially meaningful to receive the award from Teresa Weger, a summer student with Cystic Fibrosis Canada who has been part of the CF community since childhood.
“I first met Teresa when she was around eight or 10 years old at a fundraiser in Regina,” McIntyre said. “Her family’s dedication inspired me a lot. Seeing their passion made me think, if a family from Weyburn can do so much, why can’t a family from Estevan?”
Weger praised McIntyre for her dedication and kindness.
“Kasey is an amazing, strong mom,” she said. “She’s always there to help others, whether it’s fundraising or just offering support, and she does it all with a smile on her face. She’s a true inspiration.”
The celebration included a special surprise in the form of a $1,500 donation from GFL Environmental to support health and wellness initiatives. McIntyre had quietly helped coordinate the presentation behind the scenes.
“GFL contacted me in June to say we’d been approved for a donation through one of their community programs,” she said. “One of their team members had come to our walk and wanted to support our efforts. Once I knew the award event was happening, I asked if we could tie the donation into that celebration, and they made it happen.”
The gift added another layer of meaning to the day. It also reflected how more organizations are stepping forward to support cystic fibrosis advocacy and community-led efforts.
“I was so happy we could include that as part of the celebration,” McIntyre said. “It means so much to have local businesses support us in this way.”
The McIntyres remain active in fundraising throughout the year. Recently, they sold candy at community events such as Woodlawn Regional Park’s Fun Fest and plan to continue with garage sales and local gatherings. In the fall, they help support the Bienfait Legion and Lions Club dinner theatre.
“I’m blown away and very blessed to have so many people care about us and our cause,” McIntyre said. “It gives me such strength to keep going.”
She also reflected on the journey her family has taken.
“Having a son with CF is not a journey I ever thought I would be on, but it has taken me to places I never would have gone,” she said. “I’ve met amazing people and have been blessed with a strong community. Those who couldn’t be here today are standing united with us.”
She thanked her husband, children and extended family for their unwavering support.
“My husband Ken is my strength and my heart,” she said. “Together, we’ve built a home where we feel safe and loved, even on the darkest days.”
McIntyre closed with a message of hope for the cystic fibrosis community.
“We can’t leave anyone with cystic fibrosis behind,” she said. “One day, I believe CF will stand for Cure Found.”