Atlas’s Story

For most families, a strong internet connection means faster streaming or fewer dropped calls. For the Guenin family, it’s about something bigger. It’s part of how their son gets through a treatment he needs every day.

Atlas Guenin is four years old, and according to his parents, Kennedy and Billy, “super rambunctious.” Atlas has Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a genetic condition that causes mucus to build up in the lungs, leading to breathing trouble and frequent infections. There’s no cure for CF, but staying on top of daily treatment can make a real difference in how well a person with CF is able to breathe and feel their best.

For Atlas, that treatment comes in the form of an airway clearance vest. It gently shakes his chest to loosen the mucus buildup in his lungs, making it easier for him to breathe. Using this vest every day takes steady electricity, something the Guenins can’t go without. Their power comes from Blue Ridge Electric Co-op, who the family credits with resolving outages promptly and attentively whenever they’ve come up.

“We rely heavily on having power due to Atlas having Cystic Fibrosis, and at times needing four treatments a day,” Kennedy says. “On a normal day he still uses it two times a day for 30 minutes each, so it takes a decent amount of power.”  

Making treatment time easier  

Consistent power helps Atlas through his vest treatments, but electricity isn’t the only thing that matters. Atlas also relies on high-speed internet to stay entertained during those sessions, watching his favorite videos or playing games to help pass the time. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference for a four-year-old sitting through treatment. 

“I would recommend Upcountry Fiber because of the fast, reliable service, and also just the customer service and support you get,” Kennedy says. “We couldn’t imagine our lives without it. It’s really increased our quality of life.” 

A strong connection looks different for every family. For some, it’s staying in touch with loved ones or working from home. For the Guenins, it’s part of getting through something difficult, which is exactly why reliable service matters so much. When a family is counting on their internet the way the Guenins do, it has to work every time.  

At Upcountry Fiber, taking care of the community goes beyond words; it’s something they take action to do. Being part of Atlas’s story is an honor, one that comes with a commitment to keep giving families across the upstate a stronger connection they can count on. 

 How you can help 

To learn more about Atlas’s story and CF, please visit the Guenin family’s fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation: https://fundraise.cff.org/GreenvilleGS2026/Atlasarmy . Donations help support research and care for people living with CF. 

Atlas is also in the running for Toddler of the Year! He’s currently in the top 10 in his group, with a shot at $25,000 and a spot in the Hollywood Christmas Parade. To place your vote and help him take home the title, visit https://toddleroftheyear.org/2026/atlas .