Gilroy girl who inspired many loses battle with Cystic Fibrosis

A 12-year-old Gilroy girl whose battle with Cystic Fibrosis inspired thousands died earlier this month, her family reported.

Caley Camarillo died June 13 from complications of the disease, a genetic illness that causes thick, sticky mucus to form in the lungs, pancreas and other organs. The disease makes it hard to breathe and leads to lung damage.

Caley’s story touched not only her community, but gained support from celebrities such as Miley Cyrus. Numerous “Breathe for Caley” fundraisers were held to help she and her parents as she awaited a possibly lung transplant.