In the Comox Valley , a major fundraiser is set to go on Saturday, May 19, from 11a.m. until 3 p.m. raising awareness and funds for Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

The event is set for Play it Again Music Recycle – Unit 106, 2270 Cliffe Ave. (behind the Beachwood Café.) 

Anna Hamersley is the mother of 12 year old Amethyst Hamersley, a local youngster living with CF and spoke about her  motivation in organizing the event. 

"It is really important for me to have Amathyst involved as well, so she understands what we're doing this for," explained Hamersley on the involvement of her daughter in the fundraiser.

"We are hosting this BBQ Fundraiser to support fundraising efforts by Amathyst for the Cystic Fibrosis Great Strikes walk, which is a national fundraiser."

"Amethyst has a team called Amethyst's Gemstones who are looking forward to participating in the walk. She works hard every day to maintain her health an and is active in sports and follows a strict regimen of physiotherapy and antibiotic treatments to fend off lung infections."

Cystic Fibrosis is a multi-organ disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system.  It is the most common genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. 

There is no cure for CF and the condition is considered fatal.  However, great progress has been made in recent years.  With improvements in antibiotic treatment, and physio therapy methods, life expectancy has increased greatly. Today, half of all Canadians with CF are expected to live into their 40's and beyond. 

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