An estimated 162,000 people worldwide live with cystic fibrosis, a rare inherited genetic disorder that causes progressive respiratory and digestive system damage. Up to 85-90% of people with cystic fibrosis have pancreatic insufficiency. As their conditions progress, they may also experience heart failure and other severe complications. Research and treatment options have advanced over the past few decades, leading to improved lifespans. However, additional research is needed to better support those affected, provide better treatment options, and identify a potential cure: a mission that the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation continues to strive for.

On March 23, 2024, Lee University in Tennessee will be hosting the 2024 65 Roses 5K event. According to Bethany March over at Chattanoogan.com, all proceeds from the 5K will be used to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Participants may pick up their packet from 11:00am-6:00pm on March 22, 204 at Terra Running Company. If a runner is not available at that time, run registration will open on March 23 at 7:00am before the race/walk begins at 9:00am. In addition to the 5K, there will also be a 1K “Fun Run” which begins at 9:30am. The run will begin on 11th St. and all winners will receive a special edition coffee mug.

If you would like to participate in the Fun Run, you may do so for $5/pp. For the 5K, the cost is $20/pp. Learn more about the 65 Roses 5K and register early here.

About Cystic Fibrosis

If you’re interested in participating in the 65 Roses 5K, you might also be interested in learning more about cystic fibrosis. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cystic fibrosis results from a genetic defect which alters the regulation of salt movement in the body. This leads to the development of thick, sticky mucus (“normal” or healthy mucus is usually thinner and more slippery).
• Although this is a rare disorder, cystic fibrosis is more common in Caucasian newborns, occurring in around 1 in every 2,500-3,500 births. In people of other ethnicities, this condition occurs in 1 of every 17,000 African-American births and 1 in every 31,000 Asian-American births/
• Symptoms include persistent coughing and wheezing, exercise intolerance, shortness of breath, frequent lung infections, a stuffy nose, salty-tasting skin, greasy and foul-smelling stools, and chronic or severe constipation.
• Complications include respiratory failure, nasal polyps, coughing up blood, collapsed lungs, and airway damage.
• Given advances in treatment and care, people with cystic fibrosis are no longer automatically qualified for Make-A-Wish as of January 2024.

You can read more about cystic fibrosis over at Patient Worthy’s cornerstones page here.