This Page is to help spread awareness of Cystic Fibroris so one day we can find a cure. The GREAT STRIDES: Has been Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis. It is the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's largest national fund-raising event. Tens of thousands of co-workers, friends and family come together each year as one community for one cause…to help find a cure for CF. In 2007, more than $34 million was raised to support vital CF programs. If you aren't a member already it is easy. Go to http://www.cff.org/great_strides/whywestride/ to join a walk in your area. With over 500 walks all over the US everyone can join. Everyone that joins helps make a difference.Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food. In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.Symptoms of Cystic FibrosisStatisticsAbout 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year. More than 70% of patients are diagnosed by age two. More than 40% of the CF patient population is age 18 or older. In 2006, the predicted median age of survival was 37 years. The Cystic Fibrosis FoundationSince 1955, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been the driving force behind the pursuit of a cure. Thanks to the dedication and financial backing of our supporters--patients, families and friends, clinicians, researchers, volunteers, individual donors, corporations and staff, we are making a difference.