Dear Friends and Family,

From Toddler to Teenager - this year marks the 10th anniversary of Jake's diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis and the birth of JAKE’S TEAM. Since 2002, Jake’s Team has raised over half a million dollars to fund research to develop a cure for this genetic disease.

This past January, years of CF research finally led to FDA approval of the first drug ever (“Kalydeco”) that actually impacts the underlying defect that causes CF. The CF community has been dreaming of this day forever. Currently this drug treats the genetic mutation in only 4% of the CF population, which unfortunately does not include Jake. Yet this drug approval has filled us with hope and anticipation that new drugs will be developed that will lead to a cure for ALL people living with this disease.

Our fundraising is even more critical since there continues to be no cure and the government still does not contribute a single dime toward CF research of any kind. We again reach out to you - our loved ones, families, friends, neighbors and communities - to help us with our fight. JAKE’S TEAM will kick off 2012 with its annual Great Strides Walk for CF on Sunday, June 10th at 10:00 AM (registration 9:00) at New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) in Old Westbury.

We are so happy to report that Jake is doing well and gearing up for summer. Seventh grade is almost over and it’s already time to start thinking about High School! Just like last summer, Jake will again attend Camp Exploration on the campus of Wellesley College in Massachusetts. This is a huge step for him (and us!) given the multiple drug and physical treatments he undergoes every day. Jake also became a huge football fan this year and has grown to love the Jets. Still, like all boys, dragging him from video games remains a constant challenge.

Ten years ago, we had no idea where this journey would take us, and we remain incredibly humbled by your support and generosity. Without you, we would not be this close to a cure. Thank you for everything you do for our family.

Warmest Regards,

Danielle, Matt, Jake and Max

dmg80gc@yahoo.com