Episode 127
How Courage Crosses Oceans: One Woman’s Stand-Up Paddle for CF Awareness- With Rylee Walker
This season marks the 10th anniversary of this show and in this kick off episode, we sit down with Rylee Walker, a passionate cystic fibrosis advocate, endurance paddler, and intern at the Piper’s Angels Foundation, known for her unwavering determination and her upcoming documentary Against All Odds.
We explore Rylee’s transformational journey—from being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just three months old, to training for one of the world’s most extreme paddle challenges: The Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis, an 82-mile open-ocean event from Bimini, Bahamas to Florida.
Rylee uses the innovative slitted paddle by Oscar Propulsion to help her cross the Gulf Stream
In this conversation, Rylee shares profound personal stories and her hard-won insights, including:
- Living with cystic fibrosis and redefining it as a source of strength rather than limitation
- Training and mental preparation for an overnight endurance race across the Gulf Stream
- How community and purpose drive her to conquer fear and embrace life with courage
We discuss her upcoming solo attempt at The Crossing in 2025, and her crowdfunded documentary, which will make her the first woman with CF to both achieve and document such a feat. Through this, Rylee hopes to inspire others to challenge assumptions and live fully, no matter the odds facing you.
Whether you’re an aspiring adventurer, navigating your own challenges, or simply drawn to stories of grit and purpose, this episode offers the raw inspiration, courageous vulnerability, and the kind of positive energy whichstays with you long after listening.
Trailer for 'Against All Odds' Documentary
Pipers Angels Foundation website
Connect with Rylee on social media:
• Instagram – HERE
• Facebook - HERE
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Mentioned in this episode:
FlowForce Paddles from Oscar Propulsion
Oscar Propulsion's innovative FlowForce Paddle, dramatically enhances paddling efficiency and reduces stress through the body. Join the revolution and elevate your paddling with FlowForce from Oscar Propulsion Sport
Visit the Oscar Propulsion Website
Paddle UK
Paddle UK is the governing body for SUP in the UK and this year was awarded the ICF World Cup in 2026 in Torbay Come and join us in 2026 and also at the 2025 Super Festival event in Torbay to get ready for the 'big' one next year
Starboard
We want to thank our lead sponsor Starboard for supporting this season of the SUPfm Podcast Whether you're a seasoned racer, an adventurous explorer, or a beginner, Starboard has the perfect board for you. Choose Starboard for unparalleled quality and performance across all levels of paddleboarding
