May marks National Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the invisible battle fought by thousands of Australians and raising vital funds for life-changing research.
For those living with Cystic Fibrosis, the struggle is constant.
While often categorised as a lung disease, CF is a complex, multi-organ condition that affects nearly every function of the body.
Despite significant medical advancements, there is still no cure.
To help pave the way for a better future, local grandmother Judy Farley is continuing her decades-long commitment to the cause.
For more than 20 years, Judy has been a fixture of the local fundraising scene, motivated by her granddaughter, Courtney – a local CF warrior who faces the daily challenges of the condition with fierce resilience.
Judy will be hosting her annual fundraising raffle at Orbost Foodworks this Thursday and Friday, with 100 per cent of the proceeds going directly to Cystic Fibrosis Australia.
The reality for CF patients involves an exhausting daily regimen of medications and intensive physiotherapy, alongside frequent hospital and specialist visits.
This invisible load takes a significant toll not only on an individual’s time and energy but also on their finances.
Advocates say that for a healthy person to understand the daily experience of someone with CF, they should consider the symptoms of a heavy cold or the flu.
For a “CFer,” feelings of congestion, shortness of breath, and extreme fatigue are not temporary seasonal ailments, but a daily baseline.
While new developments in medications are drastically improving the day-to-day lives of many patients, the community remains focused on the ultimate goal: a cure.
A cure is considered essential for ensuring both longevity and a high quality of life for the next generation.
Local residents are encouraged to drop by Foodworks this week to purchase a raffle ticket, share a story, and contribute to the research that aims to turn CF into Cure Found.
