Spring, 2009

Dear Friends and Family,

It seems the old adage is true…”When the going gets tough, the tough get going”. And for those of us who fundraise tirelessly for our children, the task has become even more daunting due to the economy. Unfortunately we can’t take a break from efforts that could lead to a cure for a devastating disease like Cystic Fibrosis (CF). The science is truly there – the funding just is not.

With May being National Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) kicks off its annual “GREAT STRIDES” campaign marked by walks held all over the country. Our local event is on Saturday, May 30 at 10:00am, at Hofstra University in Nassau County on Long Island (www.cff.org).

Our almost 10-year-old son Jake has CF, which is an inherited disease with no cure that affects both the lungs and digestive systems. Upon his diagnosis at 3, we created “JAKE’S TEAM” and have worked diligently to educate, create awareness and raise funds. While we do our thing, Jake’s days are filled with a barrage of physical and oral treatments to keep the progressive effects of CF in check. He's having a good time, though. Jake is growing his hair long, taking drum and golf lessons and is obsessed with hand-held video games.

To date and through the efforts of an amazing network of family and friends (and their families and friends) we’ve raised close to half a million dollars – and for this we’re eternally grateful. We’re excited to know that through the efforts of the CFF, ninety cents of every dollar goes directly to research (versus half this amount for some other leading charities!). CF receives NO federal funding for research.

We understand that charitable giving is a personal choice which is why listed below are a few options:

* Select “Click to Donate”

* Select “Join My Team” and recruit your friends

In the end, we appreciate you taking the time to read the above note. We know that that at a minimum awareness has been created for Cystic Fibrosis. Our focus and determination are unwavering, and we can’t reach our aggressive goals without you. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and support for Jake and our family.

Warmest regards,

Danielle & Matt Genova