he battle to make cystic fibrosis history has witnessed many positive steps since Bath held the first of 18 annual CF Walks, but more are needed to reach the ultimate goal.
“There’s been lots of advances over that time,” said Bath walk organizer Jodi O’Neill, “but there’s still lots to go.”
O’Neill witnessed the progress as he watched his son Colton’s quality of life improve immensely with the help of new medicines and treatments discovered through research partly funded by annual walks like the one held May 26 in Bath.
Colton, who greeted walk participants at the registration desk at the Bath Community School, attends university and maintains a physically active lifestyle thanks to advanced CF treatments. He also recognizes that more must be done to relegate the genetic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system to the history books.
Jodi said residents of Bath and surrounding Upper St. John River Valley communities continue to support the CF Walk. This year, 50 participants raised more than $15,161.80.
“There’s always strong support in the area,” he said.
Great weather greeted the participants as they gathered at the Bath Community School, where the walk began and ended. A Bath Fire Department vehicle led the walkers on their route.
In addition to the funds raised by walk participants, the event garnered direct donations and sold tickets on door prizes submitted by corporate sponsors.
“We raised over $11,000 in advance of the walk,” said Jodi.
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