Estevan area residents are once again being encouraged to take up the fight against cystic fibrosis (CF).
The Estevan Kinettes Club is organizing the 2019 edition of the Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History, which will take place on May 25. The Kin Hillside Play Park will be the start-finish line for the two-kilometre walk.
Kasey McIntyre, who is the walk co-ordinator, said the activities will begin at 8:30 a.m. with a pancake breakfast provided by Beatz Eatz. The cost is $5, and McIntyre said the proceeds will be donated to the fight against CF.
Registration will begin at 10:15, and then opening ceremonies are at 10:45. Guest speaker Jocelyn Loustel, who is the aunt of someone with CF, will talk about the role of a caregiver.
“It’s a good idea to see that side of cystic fibrosis, how it affects us, too, by taking care of those people and being involved in their lives,” said McIntyre.
The walk will start at 11 a.m.
At 12:15 p.m., Beatz Eatz will provide a free barbecue lunch for participants.
Closing ceremonies are at 1 p.m.
Kids in strollers are allowed for the walk. Dogs are welcome but they have to stay on a leash.
This year’s goal is $8,000, which would be lower than last year, but the state of the economy is a factor in the lower goal. They would also like to have 50 participants, including some new people.
Supporters can sign up as an individual or a team.
A steak fundraiser will be held on May 21 at Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual through their GratiTuesday promotion. Proceeds will be directed to CF Canada.
“Every dollar is critical, not just for a cure, but for patient care as well, because these funds also to go so that when adults go to a clinic, they don’t have to pay to attend. It’s free.”
Her son Liam has CF, and she wanted to join the Kinettes because of their commitment to the fight against the disease.
Cystic fibrosis affects the lungs and digestive system by building up thick mucus, and making it hard for people with CF to breathe. It also affects other organs, such as the pancreas and the reproductive system. Adults with CF can develop Type 2 diabetes.
“Once bacteria gets in their lungs, it’s very hard to get out and it’s very devastating,” said McIntyre. “Once there’s enough damage there, the lungs deteriorate.”
It can be so bad for some that they need a lung transplant.
Kinsmen and Kinettes host a number of fundraising activities throughout the year to help with the battle against CF. Since 1964, Kin members have raised more than $40 million for research and patient care.
“We like to rally behind this fundraiser because it is a national event that Cystic Fibrosis Canada looks for clubs and people all across Canada,” said McIntyre.
McIntyre noted the national walk day is May 26, but the Kinettes organize their walk the previous day each year.
