what is cystic fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the #1 fatal genetic disease in America. People with CF have a mutated gene which causes their cells to be unable to properly allow salt to pass in and out. This causes the naturally occurring mucus that the body produces, which is usually thin and slippery, to be thick and sticky. This thick, sticky mucus can clog passageways in the body. The lungs are usually the most affected organ in the body. The mucus in the lungs is usually thin and slippery which allows the cilia to gently sweep it out. In a person with CF, the mucus is thick and sticky. This clogs the tubes of the lungs and acts as a breeding ground for infection which causes lung damage. Most people with CF eventually die of lung disease. To help keep their lungs clear, people with Cystic Fibrosis need to do chest therapy at least twice a day for their entire lives.

This cause is very important to us because Lauren Black has this disease. She was diagnosed at birth and has been fighting ever since. Lauren is now nine years old. She is very active. She loves to be outside riding her bike, playing soccer, and running around with her little sister, Katherine. The only thing that slows Lauren down is her battle with Cystic Fibrosis, the #1 fatal genetic disease in this country.

According to the CF Foundation’s National registry, only one half of all individuals with CF will live to the age of 37. Lauren fights everyday to stay healthy. She has spent over 3,300 hours (137+ days) doing chest therapy. May 31st, 2006 Lauren had a feeding tube placed.  She relies on this for al of her nutrition. She never gets a break from this disease. We don’t know what the future holds for Lauren because this disease progresses differently in everybody. We proudly support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation so that one day, hopefully soon, CF will no longer stand for Cystic Fibrosis. It will stand for Cure Found and Lauren, and thousands like her, will get a break.