Pete Proimos isn’t just surviving cystic fibrosis — he’s redefining what it means to live and give.
Diagnosed at birth with a condition that once carried a life expectancy of only 18 years, Pete turned heartbreak into a mission of hope. As founder and president of the
Filotimo Foundation, he’s ensuring that individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis never have to choose between medication and basic needs.
In this deeply personal and moving conversation, Pete shares how decades of uncertainty, fear, and resilience led him to build something rooted in love, compassion, and community. From hiding his diagnosis for 38 years to stepping onto the TEDx stage with “Find the Thing That Breaks Your Heart and Refuse to Look Away,” Pete embodies what it means to turn pain into purpose — and to leave a legacy that outlives you.
This episode is part of a special November 2025 series on the Power of Giving.
Episode Takeaways
- How cystic fibrosis shaped Pete’s early life and outlook on mortality
- The life-changing new therapy that brought hope — and new challenges
- Why some CF patients must choose between treatment and financial survival
- The founding of the Filotimo Foundation and its mission of “no one left behind”
- Mental health, masculinity, and the courage to speak your truth after decades of silence
- How the Greek value of filotimo became a philosophy of service, generosity, and joy
- What it means to build something that outlives you — a legacy rooted in compassion
About Our Guest — Pete Proimos
Pete Proimos is the founder and president of the
Filotimo Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis. Diagnosed with CF at birth, Pete has turned his lived experience into a lifelong mission to ensure no patient has to choose between medication and life.
Connect with Pete
About the Host
Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, NBC-HWC, CPC is a dual board-certified physician and TEDx speaker with advanced training in Integrative Well-being, Performance, and Leadership Development. She speaks, coaches, and consults on perfectionism, sustainable success, and the well-being of high achievers. Outside of her work, she cherishes her most important title, Super Mom, to two young girls.
❌ Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or therapeutic advice. The views expressed are personal and do not reflect those of any employer or institution.
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Content Note
This episode includes a discussion of chronic illness, infertility, depression, and financial hardship related to medical care.
What is Success Reimagined with Amna Shabbir MD ?
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Hosted by Dr. Amna Shabbir, MD, NBC-HWC, CPC—Founder and CEO, Dual Board-Certified Physician, and a fierce advocate for mental health. With advanced training in Integrative Well-being, Performance, Behavior Change, and Leadership Development, Dr. Shabbir brings deep expertise to every conversation. She’s also a sought-after Professional Speaker and proud Super Mom to two young girls. Drawing from her multifaceted roles, she offers a fresh, honest perspective on the realities of ambition, success, and sustainable well-being.
Each episode delivers practical, evidence-based strategies to help you break free from burnout, perfectionism, and the endless chase for external validation. You’ll walk away inspired and empowered to build a life that aligns achievement with deep personal fulfillment.
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Connect with Dr. Amna Shabbir:
Watch Dr. Shabbir's TEDx Talk
Perfectionism Has A Solution - It is Not What You Think: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNIzzM4Vg3s&t=3s
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amna-shabbir-md
Instagram: instagram.com/dr.amnashabbir
Facebook: facebook.com/dr.amnashabbir.md
Website: https://success-curated.com/
YouTube: youtube.com/@Dr.AmnaShabbir