Kilimanjaro Trek: Cystic Fibrosis
October last year my nephew William arrived into this world to two of the most caring people I know - my brother and sister-in-law. He is an absolute bundle of joy who in no doubt will have the best chance at life due to his strong parents and wonderful siblings (and the rest of the family of course!). William has been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis which has altered what some might think to be the 'normal' route of life.
On October the 11th I'll be heading off to Tanzania to climb Kilimanjaro in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust for my beautiful nephew William.
I need to raise a minimum of £4,100 by the 26th of July for the trek
What is CF?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition affecting more than 10,400 people in the UK. Those with CF are born with it and cannot catch it later in life, but one in 25 of us carries the faulty gene that causes it, usually without knowing.
CF causes a build-up of mucus in the lungs which incites chronic infections, meaning that people with cystic fibrosis struggle with reduced lung function and have to spend hours doing physiotherapy and taking nebulised treatments each day. Exacerbations (a sudden worsening of health, often owing to infection) can lead to frequent hospitalisation for weeks at a time, interfering with work and home life.
People with cystic fibrosis often require more than 50 tablets a day, plus a couple of hours of physiotherapy at home and some nebulised treatments. Low digestive efficiency can also mean more than 1,000 extra calories are required a day, which can be particularly challenging for children.
In short, there is no known cure for cystic fibrosis. There are a range of current treatments which improve the quality of life but we are yet to find a definitive solution to the condition. The average life expectancy is between 42 and 50 years in the developed world.
About the charity:
Cystic Fibrosis Trust is a wonderful charity that works towards a brighter future for everyone with cystic fibrosis (CF) by funding cutting-edge research, driving up standards of care and supporting people with the condition and their loved ones every step of the way.
In their own words; 'Our mission is to create a world where being born with CF no longer means a life-long struggle, when everyone living with the condition will be able to look forward to a long, healthy life.'
Every little bit helps and thank you for taking the time to read and donate.
Luke
