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Great Strides: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Efforts improve the lives of thousands. By Sandy BennettPublished: May, 2006

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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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