Shaelins’ CF Change Challenge

Help Fight Cystic Fibrosis

Dear Centerville Families,

Hi, my name is Shaelin.  I am in the second grade at Centerville Elementary School and I have Cystic Fibrosis (CF). 

During the month of May, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has an annual fundraiser called Great Strides.   This year, we are challenging each Centerville student to contribute any spare change to the cause and we will see which classroom can raise the most money.  This money will be used to make CHANGES for my future and other kids with CF.   

Each classroom will have a labeled container to put the spare change in.  There will be a graph near the office and contest results will be updated each week.  At the end of the competition (May 22^nd), the classroom that raises the most money will get a surprise.   ANY DONATION IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!

Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting 30,000 children and adults in the United States.  A defective gene causes my body to produce an abnormally thick and sticky mucus.  This abnormal mucus leads to chronic lung and sinus infections and impairs digestion.  Currently there is no cure.

In order for me to stay healthy, I am on many different medications each day, some which help me to breath better and some to help with my digestion.  This year I am also participating in a clinical research trial which requires me to do an additional nebulizer treatment for 15 minutes three times per day in addition to some additional doctor visits and bloodwork.  The good thing about this is I get paid so I already have my first job!

The life expectancy for someone with CF continues to grow.  When I was born, the life expectancy was 33 years and now it is up to 39 which is almost an increase of one year for each year of my life!  Almost all of the research for Cystic Fibrosis is funded by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and almost $.90 out of every dollar you donate will be used to fund the vital programs which are so needed.  Any amount you can spare is greatly appreciated. 

Thank you for rising to the challenge and helping to make positive CHANGES in the lives of those with CF.

Sincerely,

Shaelin, Jeanne and Randy Earle

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