I remember doing a report on Cystic Fibrosis when I was in junior high. One of the clearest memories I have of this inherited, chronic disease - that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide) - is an account I read of a child whose parents had to pound rubber ball-like things on the child's back to dislodge the mucus built up in the child's lungs. Multiple times per day. And that was a light case of the disease.
On May 15, NICE is participating in the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's annual Great Strides walk to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis research. In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.
But more help is needed. Through May 15, NICE will match your donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Visit our page on the CF website to make your donation.
My memories of CF treatment pale in comparison to a typical day in the life of a person with CF. Hear from people with CF and their families in this moving video:
And don't forget to make your donation today.
