CF FOUNDATION mission
The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.
About Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes a thick buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs and affects people of every racial and ethnic group. In the lungs, mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria, leading to infections, extensive lung damage, and respiratory failure. While many people with CF have seen transformations in their health because of existing therapies, there are still others who do not benefit, either because they cannot tolerate them, or their specific genetic mutations will not respond. People living with the disease can face significant challenges, including frequent hospitalizations, complications, and treatment plans that can take multiple hours a day. And, many children and adults with CF still face the sobering prospect of a shortened life span.
Cure for All
Highly specialized care has increased the lifespan of those with cystic fibrosis. The Foundation is a critical source of funding for a network of more than 130 accredited CF care centers across the United States. These grants provide vital support for multidisciplinary care teams so that people with CF receive coordinated care from a range of specialists. As CF changes, we continue to evolve our proven care model to enable exceptional care for every person with CF based on their unique medical needs. In addition to supporting personalized care, the Foundation is working to address the serious health conditions that can arise as a result of CF’s damaging effects to the body, such as lung infections, advanced lung disease, gastrointestinal issues, CF-related diabetes, and mental health challenges, so that those with CF can spend more time doing what they love. Even after there is a cure for CF, customized care will be needed for generations after to treat these long-lasting health issues, which is why donor support is even more critical.