One million thanks!

2010 Shinerama Campaign shatters fundraising records. Students raise more than $1 million in support of the fight against cystic fibrosis

Toronto, Ontario – (March 2, 2011) – They polished shoes, washed cars, chanted and danced for spare change, and Canadians responded overwhelmingly to the call. Thousands of students across Canada shone bright for the 2010 Shinerama Campaign, and broke all previous records — $1 million for a cure or effective control for cystic fibrosis.

Shinerama is Canada’s largest post-secondary school fundraiser, involving students from more than 65 universities and colleges. Every September, students kick off the month-long campaign, inventing creative, fun and friendly ways to raise money in their communities. The campaign, which began in 1964, has generated nearly $22 million in support of cystic fibrosis research and treatment programs funded by Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

 “I am so proud of my fellow students across the country for shattering our previous record and reaching new heights in raising $1 million!” said Ryan McDermott, National Shinerama Chair. “This is a testament to what can happen when students from coast to coast really come together for a great cause!”

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common, fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure. When Shinerama began 46 years ago, most children with cystic fibrosis did not live long enough to attend kindergarten; today half of all Canadians with cystic fibrosis are expected to live into their40s, and beyond.

“What an amazing historic year for our Shiners! On behalf of the thousands of Canadians touched by cystic fibrosis, I want to thank our volunteers and their supporters for their strong support,” said Maureen Adamson, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis Canada. “Their high spirits and dedication to our cause inspire us to work even harder for Canadians battling cystic fibrosis every day. We’re $1 million closer to a cure, thanks to the vibrant students across Canada.”

Cystic Fibrosis Canada is grateful to schools and volunteers who participated in 2010. Special thanks to the campaign’s generous national sponsors: Breakaway Tours, Domino’s Pizza and Mac’s Convenience Stores Central Division.

About Cystic Fibrosis Canada
Cystic Fibrosis Canada is a national health charity, with 50 volunteer chapters, that funds vital cystic fibrosis research and care. The organization’s mandate is to help people with cystic fibrosis, principally by funding cystic fibrosis research and by supporting high quality clinical and transplant care. Cystic Fibrosis Canada also provides educational materials for the cystic fibrosis community and the general public; undertakes advocacy initiatives with, and on behalf of Canadians with cystic fibrosis, to enhance their quality of life; and raises funds to support its programs. For more information about Cystic Fibrosis Canada, visit www.cysticfibrosis.ca.

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For more information, contact
Diana Ginsberg
Acting Media Relations Officer
dginsberg@cysticfibrosis.ca
www.cysticfibrosis.ca
416-485-9149 ext. 290
 

Reviewed/updated: 2011-03-02