Author, public speaker, Olympic torch bearer, and “Cystic Fibrosis Warrior” Andrew Cary Lipman died at age 51 on Jan. 17.
Lipman was known for outliving the typical lifespan for people with CF. He authored four books: “Alive at 25: How I’m Beating Cystic Fibrosis,” “The Drive at 35: The Long Road to Beating Cystic Fibrosis,” and “The CF Warrior Project” series.
Lipman’s older sister Wendy died in infancy from CF. Dedicated to being a leader and a warrior in the CF community, Lipman and his family created Wish for Wendy, a foundation that has raised nearly $5 million toward CF research and support.
A Sandy Springs resident, Lipman grew up in Atlanta, attended the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, and was an active member of Tau Epsilon Phi (TEP) fraternity. He was an avid fan of the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Braves.
An active athlete, Lipman ran the 10k Peachtree Road Race every year starting in 1997. His greatest achievement occurred in 2006 and again in 2008, when Lipman became a father – a miracle for any male with CF because the disease causes infertility.
According to his obituary, Lipman often said, “I have cystic fibrosis, but cystic fibrosis will never have me.” He faced challenges with grace, determination, and an unyielding belief in the power of community and hope.
Lipman is survived by his wife, Andrea, his children, Avery and Ethan, his father, Charles Lipman, and his sister, Emily Lipman Mahar.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to go to the Wish for Wendy Foundation.
