Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that: clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has made a tremendous difference for people with CF and their families. There is a sense of excitement and optimism in the CF community as those with the disease are living longer and healthier lives. When the CF Foundation was established in 1955, children born with CF were not expected to live long enough to attend elementary school; today, nearly half of the CF population is age 18 or older.
The CF Foundation is a recognized leader among voluntary health organizations. They have pioneered an innovative business model for accelerating drug discovery and development that has been emulated by other non-profits. This bold, cutting-edge approach has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health, members of the U.S. Congress and influential publications such as Forbes, BusinessWeek and The New York Times.
Great Strides is the largest fundraising event the CF Foundation holds in the Central Texas Region, attracting more than 1,500 participants and 150 fundraising teams. In the last year funds raised have doubled with over $390,000 raised in 2012 to fund research, education and care programs for those living with cystic fibrosis. In keeping with our value of “actively help,” ShoreTel Sky is proud to be a Great Strides sponsor for 2013.
Visit Central Texas Chapter’s Great Strides page to learn more about how you can help. We hope you will join us at one of the Texas events, or attend an event in your own city. Together, we can make a difference.