Something We Need To Know About Cystic Fibrosis

It is three more weeks to Ironman New Zealand. In spite of my minor setback, I am still concerned that I can do much more for kids with the debilitating condition called cystic fibrosis. I would appreciate if you will make a small donation to this small NZ non-profit organisation.

Here are some facts about cystic fibrosis:

* Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited condition that is carried by 1 in 25 New Zealanders. 1 in 3,000 births in New Zealand will be a baby with Cystic Fibrosis

* Cystic Fibrosis affects the glands of the body that normally secrete “mucus”…lungs and nasal passages, the pancreatic digestive enzymes, reproductive ducts in males…thickening the secretions to block up tubes, ducts and passageways

* People with CF (PWCF) are particularly susceptible to lung infections and cross infection is a concern with frequent hospital stays for intensive IV antibiotics. Progressively, CF can also cause diabetes, asthma, liver disease, infertility and permanently reduced lung capacity which, in many cases, requires a lung transplant

* Life expectancy for New Zealanders with CF is 29 to 30 years … a lucky few will live longer, many will die younger. 30 years ago, few lived beyond their 8^th birthday

* There is no cure for cystic fibrosis, only life-extending medication and therapy