Support 65 Roses Day - today Friday 11th!

Today, Friday 11th of April marks 65 Roses day, an annual day of fundraising for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, and this year the charity hopes to raise €300,000. 

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. With 33 new cases of CF diagnosed in Ireland each year, Ireland has the highest incidence and some of the most severe types of CF in the world. Due to recent advancements in treatment and care, now more than 1,400 people are living with CF and the number is increasing. 

Local man David Howard was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at the age of seven. A fully qualified mechanic, who is now a full-time golfer, David is an ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland

David highlighted the importance of fundraising and the ongoing research to support new medicine. 

“One of the main topics this year is longevity of life with cystic fibrosis, which for kids and parents of kids with people with CF is very exciting. The fact that people are living longer is very promising and with raising funds and especially raising more awareness, anything is possible… “ 

As previously mentioned David was diagnosed when he was 7, which can be considered as late but nowadays, babies get screened at birth, saying “which is a good thing that young children don’t get misdiagnosed and go untreated which is not ideal”. 

Volunteers across the country will be selling purple roses to support CFI, in Dunnes Stores branches

He also praised modern medicine, “advancements in research and medication have been great over the last ten years with new modulators like Orakambi, Kaftrio and Kalydeco. I am currently on Kaftrio and Kalydeco and my health has never been better.”

But there is still more that can be done. 

A recent survey conducted by CFI has shown that despite these recent advancements, significant challenges from accessing medication to obtaining financial products such as insurance, still exist for people living with the condition in Ireland. 

The much-needed funds raised on 65 Roses Day will help provide support to answer these challenges including services such as financial assistance and grants, a listening service, and advocacy efforts to empower and support people living with CF and their families. Funds raised will also allow CFI to invest in CF related research, specialist CF clinical teams and services to improve care for those living with CF and ultimately find a cure.

Volunteers across the country will be selling purple roses to support CFI, in Dunnes Stores branches, shopping centres and other participating outlets, including Dunnes in Carrigaline and Douglas.