Turning challenging times into a literal, and interactive, challenge

OCTOBER 6, 2020

As we near the end of this year we have by now heard a certain phrase mentioned numerous times, but repetition hasn’t made it any less true; these are challenging times.

In addition to our ongoing advocacy efforts, our role in improving treatment for all people living with cystic fibrosis, as well as providing our community with important information and peer support – these important activities are funded thanks to our fundraising initiatives, including events in communities across Canada each year. These events are an opportunity to bring together our community, volunteers, partners, and others – all while raising vitally needed funds that support our mission.

The pandemic resulted in significant changes to our events scheduled in 2020. In the face of change, we have accepted the challenge presented and adapted. Our Walk to Make Cystic Fibrosis History became a Virtual Challenge this year, where participants registered and chose an activity or challenge to complete that could range from push ups to yoga, or even dancing – all while raising life-changing funds for cystic fibrosis. It was a big success!

While the decision was made to modify some of our events, like our Walk, others were newly created this year with creativity and quick thinking like Quest4CF. Quest4CF is a socially distanced scavenger hunt that will be taking place in select communities across Canada on October 18, 2020. Individuals or teams are being encouraged to wear costumes as a way to celebrate Halloween in a safe way, and will venture out in their vehicles to solve clues and riddles on their Quest for treasure, all while raising funds for the cystic fibrosis community.

Merisa LePage, CF parent who will be participating in Quest4CF this year:

“My feisty 6 year old Sasha has cystic fibrosis so anytime we hear of local CF events, we are always eager to participate and do our part to get us closer to a cure. Like most of us, our family has spent the majority of the last several months at home. When I told my children about the event, they were so excited. They love that they get to go on a “treasure hunt” and get dressed up! So the fact that this event raises funds for a cause so special to us, as well as gives us the chance to have some fun as a family and put a big smile on our kid’s faces, means so much to me.”

The pandemic has required all of us to take a step back and create physical distance for health and safety, however, the cystic fibrosis community continues to demonstrate resilience and determination in the face of challenges. We always have and will continue to help the children in our community live longer and enjoy a better quality of life. Together, we are committed to supporting those living with cystic fibrosis.