An inspiring bride has captured hearts online after being filmed dancing at her wedding reception while receiving treatment for cystic fibrosis. Dannika Evans showcased her vibrant spirit in a viral TikTok video, sharing her mantra that “CF doesn’t stop no party ✨” as she gracefully moved on the dance floor while wearing a special oscillation vest and holding a nebulizer between her teeth.
At just 20 years old, Dannika tied the knot with her fiancé Bo Evans, 23, last June in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Although 20 is often considered young to many, those living with cystic fibrosis frequently have a unique perception of time, especially concerning their health and future. Parents of children diagnosed with this genetic condition, which increases susceptibility to lung infections, are often advised to manage their emotional attachment, as childhood mortality rates can be daunting. However, many, like Dannika, triumphantly reach adulthood.
For Dannika, her daily treatment includes using a nebulizer and a high-frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) vest to clear her lungs of the thick mucus that can accumulate. On the morning of her wedding, she completed her routine and anticipated needing to continue her treatment during the reception later that evening.
“Knowing that I had to do treatments the night of my wedding, doing them on the dance floor with everyone I love surrounding me seemed like the best option,” Dannika shared. “While energy was high, we had the time of our lives dancing the night away while I was shaking!”
The joyful video garnered an impressive 2.2 million views, with thousands of uplifting comments applauding her fearless attitude and determination. One viewer, who also lives with cystic fibrosis, expressed their delight, stating, “As a CF patient myself, I feel so much joy seeing other CF people sharing the happy parts of their life.”
“Most of the comments are from ‘CFers,’ respiratory therapists, or parents of CF patients,” Dannika noted. “Knowing that I can reach people just like me gives me hope to keep posting my life journey with CF. I hope it offers a fresh perspective on the disease. Cystic fibrosis can take, take, and take, but you can fight back! With joy, patience, and doing EVERYTHING you can to stay as healthy as possible.”
This resilient mindset is common among those who survive childhood with cystic fibrosis, as many ‘CFers’ commit to impressive wellness and fitness routines while maintaining a disciplined approach to their health.
Join us in celebrating young love and the incredible resilience that shines through in moments like these!
