ABOUT

Cystic Fibrosis Canada

A little girl sits on her father's shoulders as they participate in the walk

We were founded by parents of children with cystic fibrosis over 60 years ago.

Since then, we’ve worked with the cystic fibrosis community to dramatically change the CF story - and have helped more than double the life expectancy for a child born with CF today.

We’ve contributed to the global body of CF knowledge, funding research achievements such as discovering the gene that causes cystic fibrosis in 1989. And we’ve advanced access to life-changing CF medicines in Canada through relentless advocacy and government relations work.

Many Canadians with cystic fibrosis are living longer, have taken deeper breaths than ever before, and are encouraged and excited about their future. But our work is still not done.

For many Canadians with CF, life is still too challenging and too short.

You can help us change that.

By participating in the Walk To Make Cystic Fibrosis History, you will strengthen the CF community and have a powerful impact on CF Canada’s programs and services.

A little boy crossing his arms outside at last year's walk

Our Mission

To end cystic fibrosis. We will help all people living with cystic fibrosis by funding targeted world-class research, supporting and advocating for high-quality individualized cystic fibrosis care and raising and allocating funds for these purposes.

Our Vision

A world without cystic fibrosis.

Our Values

BOLD

COLLABORATIVE

IMPACTFUL

INCLUSIVE

What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure. Of the Canadians with cystic fibrosis who died in the past five years, half were under the age of 37. Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, degenerative multi-system disease that affects mainly the lungs and digestive system. In the lungs, where the effects are most devastating, a build-up of thick mucus causes severe respiratory problems. Mucus and protein also build up in the digestive tract, making it difficult to digest and absorb nutrients from food. In addition to the physical effects of the disease, mental health concerns are emerging; anxiety and depression are common among this population. Double lung transplants are often the final option for patients with end-stage disease; most fatalities of people with CF are due to lung disease.

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