Donate to help people with Cystic Fibrosis

What I'm doing

I am taking part in the 2024 Dublin marathon representing Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. I have set a rather ambitious target of 10'000 euros but hope we can get there or somewhere close!

Our story

My name is Tom Rutherford, I live in Roscommon, Ireland with my loving family.

Myself and my partner Cheryl had beautiful twin girls in October 2020. The day they were born was the happiest day of our lives, fast forward 24 hours and we were in probably the most difficult situation we had ever faced when our twin girls stomachs were distended and on their way to Crumlin Children's Hospital in Dublin.

After a month of living in Ronald McDonald accomodation on the hospital site, our daughter's were both diagnosed with what we feared the most Cystic Fibrosis and our world changed.

The girls were given various medications including antibiotics to take everyday, creon granules to help them digest fats with every meal, without which they would not gain weight, special vitamin supplements and sodium chloride because people with CF sweat out a lot of the salt in the bodies. We also have to do physiotherapy with the girls everyday to help clear the mucus from their lungs, which includes having them breath into a mask which makes it harder for them exhale.

They have to have 3 monthly visits to Galway hospital where they're closely monitored by their CF team to ensure they are staying healthy and gaining weight as much as possible. They've probably had more blood tests than I ever have had in my life and they are only 3 years old!

I want to raise money for the great work that the Cystic Fibrosis team does for our family and the many family's affected by this horrible disease. I hope we can make a difference and raise awareness.

About Cystic Fibrosis

Do you want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money in aid of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and every donation will help. Thank you in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.

More information about Cystic Fibrosis Ireland: CF Ireland (CFI) is a voluntary organisation that was set up by parents in 1963 to improve the treatment and facilities for people with Cystic Fibrosis in Ireland. CF Ireland also co-operates with medical professionals to give maximum assistance to both parents and children/adults with Cystic Fibrosis.

We are supported by fundraising and voluntary contributions and are solely concerned with the well-being of people with Cystic Fibrosis.