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Efforts improve the lives of thousands This month, thousands of walkers are expected to turn out at sites nationwide to take steps to cure cystic fibrosis during the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s signature event, Great Strides. In Orange County, the walk will be held May 13 at Doheny State Beach in Dana Point and on May 20 in Huntington Beach. The event is one of many that brings awareness and raises funds for cystic fibrosis. There are numerous others. “Locally, we conduct about 70 special events, ranging from grass roots events, like our Great Strides walkathon, to star-studded concerts, nighttime galas and golf tournaments,” says Gary Green, director of marketing for the Southern California Chapter, located in Anaheim. “We have something for everybody.” Such fund-raising efforts have helped to support the progress in cystic fibrosis research and care. Fifty years ago, for example, the life expectancy for a person with cystic fibrosis was 3 years old. Today, the median age of survival for people with the disease is 35. While the progress is impressive, there’s still much to be done. Most individuals with cystic fibrosis battle lung disease their entire lives. And at least one person dies each day from the condition, according to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that affects approximately 30,000 children and adults in the United States. The disease is characterized by an abnormally thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections. The foundation often serves as a first point of contact for individuals who have a newly diagnosed family member. Approximately 3,000 families are served by the Southern California Chapter each year. As with most nonprofit organizations, volunteers play a crucial role. “Our biggest drive right now is trying to recruit new volunteers that really kind of have a sphere of influence and a network to be able to serve on our committees and help us identify potential new sponsors,” says Green. As a part of this emphasis, the foundation is seeking the help of local schools through its new program, CureFinders. In line with the foundation’s objectives, the fund-raising program for grades K-12 helps bring awareness of the disease and raises money to help support research and care. |
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