Tipperary teacher urges people to support Cystic Fibrosis fundraising day

People in Tipperary are being urged to help Cystic Fibrosis Ireland meet its fundraising target of €300,000 on 65 Roses Day, taking place this year on Friday, 10 April.

Encouraging people in Tipperary to go out and support Cystic Fibrosis Ireland on 65 Roses Day this year is newlywed Áine Stafford from Clonmel: 

“I’m Áine: a primary school teacher, a new homeowner, newlywed and a person with CF. Managing life and health alongside each other is a balancing act that requires a layer of grit and dedication that often goes unseen. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I never forget the hard work it takes to stay here.  

“The support from CFI is invaluable, whether that is a grant or just having someone to talk to. On 65 Roses Day, I'm calling on everyone to buy a rose, visit Dunnes Stores or donate online! Every donation goes towards supporting people with CF in Ireland.”

Volunteers across the country will be selling purple roses in Dunnes Stores branchess in Clonmel, Nenagh, Roscrea, Thurles, and Tipperary Town. Fundraising efforts will also be at the Roscrea Shopping Centre and the Showgrounds Shopping Centre in Clonmel.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited condition that affects multiple systems including breathing, digestion and reproduction. Ireland has the highest rate of CF per capita in the world, with more than 1,400 people are living with CF, 33 new cases diagnosed each year and many people living with the most severe forms.

There is no cure, and CF often becomes more severe over time. Thanks to multidisciplinary care and the introduction of modulator therapies, many people with CF are living well into adulthood. However, as people age, new challenges can emerge, including CF‑related diabetes, osteoporosis and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. 

Today, CFI is investing in research to better understand the emerging issues and provides essential supports including a dedicated information and support line offering guidance, reassurance and advice, targeted financial assistance through a range of grants that help ease the cost of living with CF, and monthly online peer‑support groups that connect people with CF and strength the community