cfstory

Susan Martinez

Author, Black Belt & Personal Safety Expert

Jake’s CF Story
by Susan Martinez (Jake’s mother)

In August of 1981, when my son Jake Erling was five years old, he was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis (CF). We were devastated by the news, especially after I had delivered a stillborn baby boy only five weeks before that day in August.

We were given a bleak prognosis and told that if Jake were fortunate, he might live to see his eighteen birthday. We never hid the awful reality of CF from Jake, even when he was five. He knew he was sick and that he would never be normal and healthy like his two sisters.

“In 1981 when I was diagnosed, I remember that there was no one older than me. No one to look up to. No role models,” says Jake.

I didn’t realize it at the time but I said something to Jake that profoundly affected his attitude about his CF and himself. I said: “Jake, I don’t want you to ever use CF as an excuse for anything.” And in all these years, I don’t think he ever has, which may be the secret to his surprisingly good health.

In 1985, Jake was very proud to be the Minnesota Chapter’s CF poster child. He did numerous public and TV appearances, and the whole family joined in the activities.

“Even though I really didn’t understand what was going on, I knew I was doing something good for CF.” That was the first year Jake climbed the IDS tower to raise funds for CF research.

In 1990, when Jake was 14, he was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis Related Diabetes and Chronic Pancreatitis.

“Having diabetes made my CF struggle ten times harder than before. Again I didn’t know anyone who had CF and diabetes and had a hard time finding a diabetes doctor that had dealt with other CF people.”

In 1991 at age 15, Jake earned a black belt in karate. He had started karate when he was six shortly after he was diagnosed. It was a great accomplish to earn a black belt and once again he didn’t know anyone else with CF who had earned one.

“One of the best parts about the day of my black belt test was seeing my CF doctor Dr. Kurachek in the audience cheering me on! He has been an excellent caregiver and a motivating friend to me.”

Today, Jake is 34 years old and married to the beautiful Natalia Velasquez Erling. He works full time and teaches Martial Arts to children and adults at My Gym Fitness Center in Eden Prairie and Out On A Limb Dance Company in St. Paul.

Visit Jake's web site at www.jakeerling.com.

Visit Susan's web site at www.susanmartinez1.com.