Mary Duff has long been known for her powerful voice and heartfelt performances — but her impact extends far beyond the stage. As an ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, Mary has become a passionate advocate for those living with the condition, lending not only her name but her time, energy, and compassion to a cause that’s deeply personal to her.
This September, Mary will once again lead the organization’s annual international walk, which this year takes place in the beautiful setting of Montenegro. These walks are more than fundraising events — they are moments of unity, support, and shared purpose for families, patients, and advocates alike.
“Cystic fibrosis really is a cause close to my heart,” Mary shared. “In my ambassador role for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, I’ve made friends with so many people who live with the daily reality of this disease. Their strength and resilience inspire me constantly.”
Mary has also helped bring awareness to the daily challenges faced by people with cystic fibrosis — a condition that often requires constant medication, antibiotics, nebulisers, physiotherapy, and frequent hospital care. As she poignantly puts it: “While for most of us, breathing is something we can thankfully take for granted, for someone with cystic fibrosis, it can be a battle.”
Mary recently released a moving song to help share this message, originally written in the UK by individuals personally connected to cystic fibrosis. The song offers listeners a glimpse into the emotional and physical realities of the illness, aiming to foster empathy and understanding.
With her voice, heart, and presence, Mary Duff continues to raise awareness and hope — proving that music, when rooted in compassion, can be a powerful force for change.