WHAT IS 65 ROSES DAY?

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) celebrates its national day 65 Roses Day on Friday 25th May 2007. The day is based on the story of a little boy who could not pronounce his sisters condition Cystic Fibrosis and instead called it 65 Roses.

65 Roses Day is held to raise awareness of CF, to provide funding for research projects, along with support services for young people living with CF and their families.

In the month leading up to 65 Roses Day, a national awareness campaign will be run through the media with radio and television community service announcements.

By purchasing a 65 Roses 'Breathe Life' Awareness Wristband ($2), 65 Roses Ribbon ($2), 65 Roses Pen ($3) or 65 Roses Pin ($5) you will be helping us to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

Why the Rose?

The rose is the national symbol of Cystic Fibrosis. Roses are often considered to be the ultimate expression of natural beauty. Their magnificent bloom and fragrance juxtaposed on a thorny stem have captured imaginations for centuries. As a living thing they can endure harsh conditions but flourish with care and attention and can live for a very long time. They are timeless.

Many parallels can be drawn between the rose and a person with CF. The condition Cystic Fibrosis imposes harsh conditions on the lives of those who suffer with it and their families and yet there is a resilience and charm about each person as a result of their struggle and connection with the beauty of life. Recent advancements made through medical research relating to the treatment of CF have led to extended life expectancies to longer than ever before which gives great hope for people with CF until a cure can be found.

For these reasons the Red Rose seems a most appropriate symbol for Cystic Fibrosis and is used nationally.