20th Annual Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History set to raise funds and awareness of cystic fibrosis at more than 40 events across Canada
Toronto, ONTARIO (May 1, 2024) – Cystic Fibrosis Canada’s signature event, the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History is happening on Sunday, May 26 at more than 40 locations across the country. Whether participants choose to walk, run or roll at their nearest community event or support the event online, Cystic Fibrosis Canada is calling on the power of the cystic fibrosis (CF) community to make this a memorable event and generate critical funds for CF research and support so that no one with CF is left behind.
“We take immense pride in the vibrant cystic fibrosis community for the enthusiasm they inspire among their friends and family for this event” says Gemma Cowan, Senior Director, Events, Cystic Fibrosis Canada. “Despite the challenges that impact those living with CF and their families daily, both they and their supporters step toward contributing to the work we do. They understand the critical importance of supporting every Canadian affected by CF through funding research, advocacy, information and care.”
Every year during May’s Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, Cystic Fibrosis Canada holds Canada’s largest national fundraising event, the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History, in support of Canadians affected by CF. The Walk is an opportunity for families, friends, individuals and teams to take a #StepTorward helping change the lives of people living with cystic fibrosis and honour those who’ve lost their lives because of this disease. The Walk is a volunteer-driven event and would not be possible without the support of hundreds of volunteers across the country.
In the last year, Cystic Fibrosis Canada, together with the CF community, successfully advocated for access to life-changing drugs for those aged 5 years and older with the most common mutation of cystic fibrosis , which helped children across the country with CF breathe easier and slow the damage to their lungs. There are too many, however, for whom the latest drugs and treatment do not work and Cystic Fibrosis Canada refuses to leave them behind.
Hence, this year demonstrates a #StepTorward ending CF for all with a focus on funding research projects that will benefit those living with CF sooner rather than later, and initiating change, particularly for those who have limited access to treatment options.
For the past 19 years, thousands of Canadians have joined the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History to change the cystic fibrosis story. Since its inception, the Walk has raised over $41 million to support increased access to life-changing medications, CF research and high-quality individualized health care.
Canadians interested in joining their local Walk or the virtual Walk can register at: walk.cysticfibrosis.ca
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Cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting 4,400 Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure. Of the Canadians with cystic fibrosis who died in the past five years, half were under the age of 37. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, degenerative multi-system disease that affects mainly the lungs and digestive system. In the lungs, where the effects are most devastating, a build-up of thick mucus causes severe respiratory problems. Mucus and protein also build up in the digestive tract, making it difficult to digest and absorb nutrients from food. In addition to the physical effects of the disease, mental health concerns are emerging; anxiety and depression are common among this population. Double lung transplants are the final option for patients with end-stage disease; most fatalities of people with CF are due to lung disease.
Cystic Fibrosis Canada
Cystic Fibrosis Canada has dramatically changed the cystic fibrosis story. We have advanced research and care that has more than doubled life expectancy. Since being founded by parents in 1960, Cystic Fibrosis Canada has grown into a leading organization with a central role engaging people living with cystic fibrosis, parents and caregivers, volunteers, researchers and healthcare professionals, government and donors. We work together to change lives for the more than 4,400 Canadian children and adults living with cystic fibrosis through treatments, research, information and support. Despite our remarkable progress together, we are not yet done. We will keep pushing, keep going further until all people with cystic fibrosis can and do experience – and enjoy - everything life has to offer. Learn more at www.cysticfibrosis.ca
For more information, please contact:
Chloe Hall
Manager, Communications
Cystic Fibrosis Canada
T: (519) 402-4070
E: chall@cysticfibrosis.ca
