HCMSTigers 2023

Dear HCMS Students and Parents:

Each year the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation holds its annual walk event, GREAT STRIDES: Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis. Over the past 17 years, HCMS has raised over $60,000 dollars for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation!

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening genetic disease in which a defective gene causes a thick, buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas and other organs causing persistent lung infections and progressively limiting the ability to breathe. Minimizing contact with germs is a top concern for people with CF. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the body to break down food and absorb vital nutrients. The buildup of mucus in the pancreas can also stop the absorption of food and key nutrients, resulting in malnutrition and poor growth. In the liver, the thick mucus can block the bile duct, causing liver disease.

The research has produced amazing breakthrough treatments and modulators that have added years to the lives of people with cystic fibrosis, increasing their lung function, decreasing routine hospitalizations, and even taking people off of the transplant list. The Foundation's mission of finding a cure for every single person with CF has accelerated over the past six years and the research they are supporting and conducting will be a basis for improvements for more than just Cystic Fibrosis. CF STAND WILL ONE DAY STAND FOR CURE FOUND.

The 6th, 7th and 8th graders will learn more about CF over the next few weeks and will have the opportunity to walk the outside track for all those with CF, working together to make a difference. We appreciate any donation you make and know your tax-deductible donation will go directly to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to fund lifesaving research.

The GREAT STRIDES walk is a terrific way for student to help individuals who have the misfortune of being stricken with Cystic Fibrosis and to gain awareness and take action to help others in need. If you have any questions about the CF Walk, please feel free to call me at 815-469-4474 or email dwonder@fsd157c.org. Thank you for your cooperation and support.

Sincerely,
Mr. Wonder
HCMS CF Walk Coordinator