Celebrating accomplishments is focus of this CF Awareness Month
Fundraising, advocacy events slated throughout May in US
The events slated for this year’s Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month aim to celebrate the accomplishments, milestones, and hopes of those in the cystic fibrosis (CF) community.
During May, U.S. and international organizations are encouraging people with CF to share their experiences and challenges, helping others picture what the future can look like despite the genetic disease.
“This month is a celebration of you!” states the webpage of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF), which has chapters across the U.S.
Throughout the month, the nonprofit will be sharing stories on social media channels, with CF community members talking about their personal triumphs, small goals, and long-term ambitions.
“Defining the future together,” the CFF suggests as a sample Facebook or Instagram graphic that shows “together” in all capital letters. Other suggested graphics state: “Today, there are close to 40,000 people in the U.S. with cystic fibrosis,” and “More than half of the cystic fibrosis population is age 18 or older.”
Other graphics from the foundation note the organs typically affected by CF and the notable variability in symptoms that can occur among individuals with the disease. To better connect with the CF community, the nonprofit suggests advocates use the hashtag #CFAwarenessMonth “to help share your story.”
Landmarks in Australia to be illuminated for CF Awareness Month
Supporters in the U.S. can also participate in fundraising events and walks, and donate to research organizations to help advance treatments.
“We are in a relentless pursuit of a cure,” the CFF notes.
Several Great Strides events — the organization’s largest national fundraising initiative to help find a cure for CF — will be occurring, mostly in May, across the U.S. To date, the events this year have raised more than $7.7 million, toward the goal of $24.2 million for 2025.
For its part, the Cystic Fibrosis Research Institute (CFRI) is promoting an advocacy day on May 5 in Sacramento, California.
The day’s events are aimed at raising awareness among elected representatives in the state and asking for support on specific legislation relevant to the CF community. John Laird, a member of the California State Senate, will read a resolution declaring May as CF Month.
CFRI also suggests people share photos and videos on social media under the Purple Power Challenge, with purple accessories or makeup, or share purple foods or drinks. This nonprofit also provides a CF Awareness Month Social Media Toolkit to help people spread awareness and amplify the message. Sample social media posts and cover photos are available.
“May is Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month — a time to educate, advocate, and inspire change. With your support, we can raise awareness for the critical need for research, better therapies, and ultimately a cure,” the webpage states.
Elsewhere, Cystic Fibrosis Australia is also recognizing CF Awareness Month by providing a social media toolkit with CF facts and figures, such as “over 3,700 people are living with Cystic Fibrosis in Australia.”
Additionally, during May, landmarks in Australia will be illuminated in red, to show support for people with CF.
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