Vivus Lends Support to CFF Dallas, Forth Worth Chapters’ Recent CF Climb Fundraiser

Biopharma Vivus recently supported the Dallas and Fort Worth chapters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) in their CF Climb fundraising event at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, providing both sponsorship and employee participation.

The company’s backing corresponded with its launch of Pancreaze (pancrelipase), approved in 2010. In June, Vivus closed on its acquisition of the therapy designed to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency by helping CF patients and others absorb fats, proteins, and sugars. 

On Sept. 22, in Arlington, climbers from Dallas and Fort Worth met in the middle of AT&T Stadium — home of the Dallas Cowboys — before making a climb that totaled roughly 2 miles, or 1,555 steps. The untimed route included four stadium levels with both stairs and ramps. 

Climbers of all fitness levels and ages participated, either as individuals or part of a team. Fundraisers unable to attend the event did so as “virtual climbers.”

New for this year’s participants in CF Climb was the added perk of an AT&T Stadium tour, along with opportunities to be photographed on the iconic Dallas Cowboys Star on the football field.

The $100 due on or before event day was the minimum pledge requirement; participants are encouraged to continue raising funds up to a month after the climb. Minimum fundraising nets a CF Climb long-sleeve T-shirt. Rewards for higher amounts include other apparel and electronic items such as portable printers, robots, and PlayStations.

CF Climb is held in multiple cities annually throughout the United States. The next one will be Sept. 29 in Orlando, Florida. Go here for the calendar. Last year, CF Climb raised nearly $2 million to help support research, care, and education programs. So far this year, the national effort has raised $866,285 toward its $1.5 million goal.

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that, over time, limits the ability to breathe. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 87 percent of CF patients need to take enzyme replacements because their intestines lack the enzymes required to break down food and absorb nutrients, resulting in built-up gas and other digestive problems. 

 The CFF’s mission is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide CF patients with the opportunity to lead full, productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment, and ensuring access to high-quality, specialized care.

There are three CFF Northeast Texas chapters, one in Dallas and the others in Fort Worth and Tyler. Go here for more information and to find other chapters.