Cystic fibrosis is a progressive disease that causes persistent lung infections that, over time, limits the ability to breathe. This genetic disease causes a thick, sticky buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Sometimes, like in the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria which leads to infections, lung damage and eventually respiratory failure. Other times, like in the pancreas, the mucus doesn’t let the digestive enzymes to release so, the body can’t break down food and absorb nutrients.
Who’s Affected by CF?
According to the CF Foundation, here are the facts:
- More than 30,000 people are living with cystic fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide).
- Approximately 1,000 new cases of CF are diagnosed each year.
- More than 75 percent of people with CF are diagnosed by age 2.
- More than half of the CF population is age 18 or older.
What is the CF Foundation?
The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to “cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full, productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment, and ensuring access to high-quality, specialized care.” The foundation provides both research and drugs for those living with CF.
How Can I Help?
Join MCLife as we kick off our #CatchYourBreathForCF fitness challenge! Wear your purple and join us in the #CatchYourBreathForCF fitness challenge to raise national awareness of #CysticFibrosis. The goal is to reach as many people around the globe as possible by using the hashtag #CatchyourbreathforCF. This fitness challenge brings together both fitness and philanthropy which are core values for MC.
Here’s how it works:
1) Grab something purple
2) Do your regular workout or anything fitness related
3) Post a video with #CatchYourBreathForCF and tag your friends and family
Together, we can bring hope to the families who have loved ones who’s lives depend on people like us! Let’s make a difference together and spread awareness for CF, and change the meaning of CF to Cure Found! #CatchYourBreathForCF
