The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation holds thousands of events annually to raise money in support of our search for a cure for cystic fibrosis.

As a 501(c)(3) organization, the Foundation must adhere to federal and state laws, and is prohibited from supporting, opposing, endorsing -- or in any way implying endorsement of -- any candidate running for office.

We recently learned that our South Florida office had plans to honor two candidates running for office at an event called South Florida's Finest Couples on September 24, 2010. The candidates are State Senator Dan Gelber (D), and Lt. Col. Allen West (R). 

After assessing the situation, we determined that honoring these candidates during the campaign season could be construed as an endorsement. We regret the decision to invite them as honorees so close to the election. 

We have asked Sen. Gelber and Lt. Col. West to step down as honorees, and they agreed to do so.

We apologize to Sen. Gelber, Lt. Col. West, and their families and supporters, and we look forward to working with them in the future. 

We remain grateful for their support -- and for the support of the entire CF community -- as we move forward in fulfilling our mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis.