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“Taking part in FeBREWary is a great way to make a difference for those with CF”

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Last year, Vanessa, whose 18-year-old daughter Shona has cystic fibrosis (CF), and her sister Rachel, organised a virtual FeBREWary event with friends and family, raising an incredible £1,700 for the Trust. As we gear up for the return of FeBREWary next month, they tell us about the inspiration behind their fundraising and why they won’t stop until everyone with CF can get the treatments they need.  

Raising awareness of CF

Virtual FeBREWary eventWe have been fundraising for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust for many years, taking on various challenges during that time: running marathons, taking on Great Strides and organising balls. It’s a charity that means a lot to our family as my (Vanessa) daughter Shona, 18, has CF. Following Shona’s diagnosis, we found the ongoing support, knowledge and information provided by the Trust to be invaluable. When things can seem difficult and overwhelming it is useful to have positive advice and support. 

CF can be a hidden condition; you can’t always see what that person is really going through, so it’s really important to raise awareness and increase understanding of CF, which is one of the reasons we fundraise. It’s been brilliant to see how much Kaftrio has helped Shona and made a big difference to her life. She says it has made her breathe better – her lung function increased to 90% (at one point it was as low as 43%) – and given her so much more energy. We know the fundraising we do contributes to research into treatments and medications like Kaftrio, so we are determined to continue raising vital funds as the fight against CF continues.  

Rachel at her FeBREWary eventOur FeBREWary event

Due to the pandemic our FeBREWary event was held online. I (Rachel) donated some raffle prizes through my own business, and friends and family did the same. Shona gave a speech about her experience of CF, so it really hit home for everyone who attended. It was lovely having everybody together – even if it was virtually – and we were delighted to raise over £1,700.  

We know Shona was moved by the event, and we look forward to organising more fundraising events in the future. Shona tells us how proud she is of our fundraising, and we are so proud of her. She’s a strong, determined, and confident young lady who is amazing.  

We’d definitely encourage others to organise a FeBREWary event for the Trust. It’s a great way to give back and to make a real difference to those living with CF. 

FeBREWary is back for 2022 and we’d love you to join or host a FeBREWary event. Sign up today and help make sure everyone with CF can live without limits.  

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FeBREWary

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