The presentation and severity of the disease varies and can come as a surprise to parents when there has been no known history within their families. Currently, there is no cure. However, advances in research have caused the median age of survival to extend into the early 30s. Only 15 years ago, that median age was around 20. The walk, which occurs nationally during May, will continue raising research dollars.
Walkers raise money by obtaining donations from friends, colleagues and family members.
A great aspect about the walk is that 90 cents of every dollar raised goes directly toward CF research, Dr. John Dallas said. They are very efficient in their use of the money they raise. In Galveston, walkers will start at Moody Gardens and follow a 6.2-mile course that takes them down Seawall Boulevard and back to the starting point. Participants can walk, run, rollerblade, or ride a bicycle on the route. Volunteers are also needed to help set up, staff water stations and serve food.