The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the major force behind the attempts to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis as well as improve the lives of those affected by the disease. Not only have they funded more CF research than any other organization, but they also have spread hope. On their website (www.cff.org) they state that they are:

• Research pioneers
• Fund-raisers
• Advocates
• Stewards
• Caregivers
• Helping hands, offering support, information, and resources.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation was founded in 1955 in Philadelphia, PA. Since its establishment by a group of volunteers, they have set up 115 centers for the treatment of patients and have over 80 chapters and offices in the United States. Scientists working for the CFF discovered the CFTR gene and are constantly trying to find new treatments and develop new drugs. To date, the CFF has been the major contributor in the development and FDA approval of four therapies and is currently supporting about 30 research projects developing new treatments.

Outside of just the scientific research, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation raises funds to support the research to treat and hopefully cure the disease, brings patients and their families to specialized care for their help, and makes sure to keep Cystic Fibrosis a priority in the government and research. Their driving force is a huge reason research for this disease has come so far since 1955. Their goals for the future are much greater.

They are a nonprofit, donor-supported organization. Most of their work must be done by volunteers. If you desire to volunteer in the fight for better lives of Cystic Fibrosis patients, you can visit their website and find a way to volunteer in a way that best matches your lifestyle. (www.cff.org/GetInvolved/Volunteer/) If you don’t have the time to dedicate to an activity but still want to help out, you can make a donation (www.cff.org/GetInvolved/ManyWaysToGive/MakeADonation/) or help raise awareness like I am (ideas for doing so are found at www.cff.org/GetInvolved/CFAwareness/). Everything that can be done is appreciated greatly.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's big fundraising event each year is called Great Strides: Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis. This walk-a-thon has over the years raised over $214 million, with almost $38 million raised last year. This event occurs across the United States with several areas of participation in each state. To register for future Great Strides events, you can go to http://www.cff.org/great_strides/ and register for your state. You can also support walkers and teams with donations at that site.

Remember that the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation uses these proceeds and volunteers to help find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. One day, CF will stand for Cure Found because of this wonderful organization.

Keep Hope,

Cystic Sister @---