Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The CureFinders program will include a Junior Youth Board made up of 10-15 of Western New York’s most dedicated students. Boards are forming for both Erie and Niagara Counties! The members will come together from different schools across the area and unite to help the CF Foundation on its mission to make CF stand for Cure Found.

Nominations for the Junior Youth Board are due by May 11^th and students will be asked to set up meeting with their schools by early June! Students must be between grades 6 – 12 at the start of the 2009 school year, have enthusiasm and the desire to make a difference. If you know a remarkable student that you think would be a good addition to the Junior Youth Board, please click on the link below to fill out a nomination form.

This is a truly remarkable opportunity. CureFinders will not be just an honor or a line on a college application; it will be a life changing experience of growth and learning for all involved.

Click here to fill out the CureFinders nomination form!

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Event Follow-up – Breath of Life Gala 2009

On Friday, February 6th, patients, families and friends gathered at Salvatore's Italian Gardens to honor outstanding members of the CF community, support the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and celebrate another remarkable year in the journey to cure CF. Michelle McClintock of WIVB-TV Channel 4 in Buffalo hosted the evening, which was filled with fun, food and dancing.

Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Buffalo and Women & Children’s Hospital of Buffalo were both honored at the event with the Commitment to a Cure Award. The Commitment to a Cure Award is given to a person or organization that exhibits exceptional dedication to the fight against cystic fibrosis, contributes their time and talents to further the research supported by the CF Foundation, inspires others to become involved in the community, and spreads awareness of cystic fibrosis.

Also honored was Nicole Ellis, who received the prestigious Katie’s Courage Award. This award is given to an individual with cystic fibrosis that is active in the CF community, inspires others through their achievements, and has an optimistic outlook that evokes the action of others.

After the reception that included a silent auction and the exciting BOMI Diamond Dig attendees feasted on an incredible gourmet meal. The highlight of the evening was when Christine Barrientos gave a touching perspective of being a mother to 2 year old Jaron who battles CF. Her speech inspired numerous people to participate in Bid for a Cure, which raised over $14,000. The night continued with a live auction hosted by Rob Lederman of 97 Rock, which featured items such as “A Night in the Press Box” with Rick Jeaneret and Harry Neale of the Buffalo Sabres, and a “Ritzy Vacation for Two” to Naples, Florida! To conclude the evening the Dr. Andres Band performed as the attendees danced the remainder of the evening away.