As many of you know, Emma Jefferson and her family have been raising thousands of dollars to fight cystic fibrosis (www.cff.org), a genetic disease for which there is still no cure.  Emma herself has been a great champion in the effort to fight a disease that affects her daily life, and will continue to impact her entire life.

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive disease affecting nearly all the body’s membrane tissues, in particular those in the lungs and pancreas.  Accordingly, Emma’s lungs are under the constant strain of chronic infection of anywhere from four to five destructive bacteria at all times.  Emma undergoes daily treatments, but even this will not abate the need for a lung transplant later in life as she is literally losing lung function daily.  Her pancreas likewise is significantly degraded and ultimately CF related diabetes and malnutrition loom as daily life-threatening scenarios.  Emma’s CF related medications are ground breaking developments, but likewise extremely expensive, one inhaled medication is so costly that even the standard 20 percent co-pays are an exceeding burden.

We cannot think of a more deserving, vibrant young lady to honor by starting a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for her current treatments and future needs. We are asking you to join us this Holiday Season in supporting this fantastic young lady. What a joy it has been to watch her grow and thrive over the years. There is hardly a better gift for Christmas than a loving, community commitment to continued health and happiness. We are exceedingly grateful for your support, demonstrating to Emma she is loved and cherished! Thank you!