Since 1960, the charity has been dedicated to improving the lives of cystic fibrosis patients with funds raised to support advancements in treatments.
This year marks the 65th anniversary of Cystic Fibrosis Queensland (CFQ), one of the largest and oldest organisations supporting people living with Australia’s most common life-limiting genetic condition.
“When I reflect on our journey, 65 years is an awe-inspiring milestone in both achievement and sentiment for an organisation like ours,” CFQ CEO Petrina Fraccaro said. “In the early days, we started out by providing basic support for families living with cystic fibrosis. Since then, [CFQ] has grown into a leading advocate and service provider, addressing critical healthcare needs, mental health support and social connection, as well as partnering with research institutions to drive advancements in treatment and access to cutting-edge therapies.“
Cystic fibrosis currently has no cure, and with one in 25 (equivalent of one million) estimated to be unknowing carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene, an Australian child is born with the life-long genetic condition every four days.
“Over the last 65 years, we have seen remarkable improvements in treatments and patient outcomes, and our advocacy work has seen significant impact on funding and policy changes.”
CFQ secretary Connie Arundel has been involved with the organisation for most of her life and joined the board following a double lung transplant to alleviate her cystic fibrosis symptoms.
“I’m so grateful to be able to bring the perspective of someone living with cystic fibrosis to the board,” Arundel said. “This opportunity to help others like me get access to services that can just completely change their lives has been such an eye-opening experience.”
Cystic fibrosis requires constant medical treatment to alleviate an abnormal build-up of mucus in the lungs, airways and digestive systems, which can cause infection and irreversible damage to major organs. Paediatric respiratory physician Claire Wainwright said the CFQ’s monumental anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on medical advancements that have been made and are still to come.
“When I first started working with cystic fibrosis patients, I had no idea that in my lifetime we would make such extraordinary advancements in treatment,” Wainwright said. “[CFQ] does extraordinary work lobbying, fundraising, supporting the families and enabling paediatrics specialists like me to have access to the resources we need to help children and families – I wouldn’t be where I am today without their ongoing support.”
For the cystic fibrosis community, 65 years is a more sentimental anniversary than for others, with the ’65 Roses for Cystic Fibrosis Challenge’ being an annual fundraising event throughout the Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month each May. The challenge is named after a young child with cystic fibrosis who called his condition ’65 Roses’ when he was too young to pronounce the term.
CFQ will celebrate its 65th anniversary at its Ruby Jubilee Cocktail Party alongside community members and sponsors in July. To learn more or donate, visit CFQ’s website.
Read also: Prevalence of depression and anxiety in children with cystic fibrosis discovered
Geraldine is currently the Content Producer for Third Sector, an Akolade channel. Throughout her career, she has written for various industries and international audiences. Her love for writing extends beyond the corporate world, as she also works as a volunteer writer at her local church. Aside from writing, she is also fond of joining fun runs and watching musicals.
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