walk this way cystic fibrosis fashion show

kijaro got involved with cystic fibrosis (cf) in 2009 partnering with urbanbleu hair salon owner kristyn lawson who lost her brother-in-law after his battle with cf. she wanted to put on a fashion show and kijaro was happy to join in. we felt it was a perfect fit, breathing is a key and critical necessity to any one's journey and this disease prevents people the luxury and ease of what most of us consider a natural function . . . breathing. cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:

• clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and
• obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

in the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with cf. many people with the disease can now expect to live well past their 30s.

statistics

• about 1,000 new cases of cystic fibrosis are diagnosed each year.
• more than 70% of patients are diagnosed by age two.
• more than 45% of the cf patient population is age 18 or older.
• the predicted median age of survival for a person with cf is in the mid-30s.

the cystic fibrosis foundation

since 1955, the cystic fibrosis foundation has been the driving force behind the pursuit of a cure. thanks to the dedication and financial backing of our supporters-patients, families and friends, clinicians, researchers, volunteers, individual donors, corporations and staff, we are making a difference.

school program fundraisers

this program was started with our local high schools and area organizations. we provide chairs at our cost so that they can sell them to raise funds for school programs. we have really enjoyed participating in these groups' initatives to sell more chairs so kids can have more opportunities.