Thirteen teams raised $23,850 during the May 10 Great Strides: Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis Walk at Dan Nicholas Park.
Approximately 150 walkers and supporters turned out for the event that raises awareness and money for cystic fibrosis (CF) research.
There is no cure for CF, a life-threatening genetic disease that affects 30,000 children and young adults in the U.S.
The teams were Saving Grace, Christie Shoe’s CF Starbursts, Tate’s Team, Suellen’s Dootah, Leila’s Gang, Miracles in Motion, Lane Street Baptist Church Youth, Team ‘Rella, Chasing Down a Cure, Billy’s CF Rescue Squad, Premier Federal Credit Union, Bart’s Battalion and Across the States for Saving Grace.
Sponsors included Romano’s and Capriano’s Italian Cuisine, Hartley Ready Mix, Hitachi Metals, Chick-fil-A, Elkhorn City Drug, Salisbury Pediatric Associates and Premier Federal Credit Union.
Food and beverages were provided by Harris Teeter, Jersey Mike’s, Krispy Kreme and Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections and obstructs the pancreas.
With ongoing research and development of new therapies, life expectancy has more than doubled in the past 25 years and is now nearly 37 years of age. There are at least 15 families in Rowan County directly affected by CF.
Daily treatment includes vigorous “shaking” of the lungs to clear airways using a vest machine, aerosol antibiotics to treat lung infections, mucus-thinning drugs to reduce the number of lung infections and improve lung function, and pancreatic enzyme replacements to help absorb nutrients in digestion.
The CF Foundation promotes specialized care for those with CF. The foundation also provides grants to researchers and scientists to conduct CF research to help find a cure.
Recently, three scientists were awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their progress in CF research that could ultimately lead to a cure. Nearly 90 cents of each dollar donated goes to CF programs including research, education and care.
In honor of Mother’s Day, moms of those suffering from CF received a rose. Walkers are dedicated to “Adding Tomorrows Every Day” for those suffering from Cystic Fibrosis. Additional information on CF may be found at www.cff.org.