I have written about this before, three times, perhaps more than that. Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic lung disease , about which much is known. But there is no cure, and having the disease is a death sentence. I first learned about CF when a CF baby was born to neighborhood family, in 1973, about the same time our second daughter was born. That baby is 37 years old now, and as far as I know is still living. This is quite an accomplishment, and was unheard of at the time of his birth when his life expectancy was more like middle to late teens. You can learn more about Cystic Fibrosis on this site.
Sixteen years later, our 1973 model daughter had surgery to repair a torn ACL. The hospital where the surgery was done was a treatment center for CF patients, and for whatever reason, she was in the same area with those patients. Most of the CF patients were in their late teens and early twenties, and they were mighty sick. Breathing treatments, IV antibiotics, and oxygen were the order of the day, and the night. I remembered back to our neighbor, and realized that he was sixteen now, too. That type of reality can be a little bit overwhelming; suddenly a torn ACL that could be fixed seemed pretty small and insignificant.
Some years after that we met our friend Jimmy, but it was long after we met him that we learned that one of his sons has Cystic Fibrosis. This weekend, at KC Campground, Milan, Michigan Jimmy is sponsoring his fourth benefit for Cystic Fibrosis Research. Some great musicians, and better friends, are lined up to do what they do best, play and sing great bluegrass music. Jimmy is amazed at the numbers of bands that called him up to volunteer to play at the benefit, and you will be too.
Profiles of each band have been posted on Pickin’ on CF’s Facebook page, and they are worth a look. Head over and check them out.
When Jimmy’s desire to give back by raising funds for research took flight, Papa and I wanted to help. We can’t sing (you all know that!), but we have done what we can in the ways that we can. I have helped with the Pickin’ on CF promotions and web presence. Papa had taken photographs at each event, and will be on the job this weekend. He also convinced his employer to make a donation. And we are out here at KC Campground this week to do whatever else we can to help.
Sometimes it just feels better act, words are not enough. That’s what we have done.
Now, it is your turn, come on out for the weekend, or for one day. If you are simply unable to attend, send a check. There have been huge advances and CF patients are living longer and longer, with a better quality of life. But a cure has not been found, and that is what Pickin’ on CF is about.
What:
Pickin’ on Cystic Fibrosis [http://www.pickinoncf.com]
Where:
KC Campground
14048 Sherman Rd
Milan, MI 48160
Phone: (734) 439-1076
When:
Thursday September 16 beginning at 6:00 p.m.
Friday September 17 noon to 10:30 p.m.
Saturday September 18 noon to 10:30 p.m.
Donation:
Thursday: $10, Friday and Saturday $15 each. Weekend: $30. Children under 16 free with paying adult.
Camping is extra, but a a reduced rate of $15 Thursday through Saturday.
Pickin’ on Cystic Fibrosis has partnered with Hunt for a Cure, a 501(3)(c) organization this year. If you are unable to attend and would like to make a donation for research to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis checks can be sent to:
P.O.C.F.
246 N. Dickinson Ave
Hesperia Mi. 49421
Your donation is tax deductible if you make your check to “Hunt for a Cure”. Please note “Pickin’ on CF” in the memo line.
Disclaimer: I am connected with Pickin’ on Cystic Fibrosis, I have constructed, and I maintain their websites. I also worked on publicity for the event this year. Pickin’ on Cystic Fibrosis pays for web space and domain name registration, but I do not receive compensation for my time. Papa has photographed previous events and will photograph this weekend’s without compensation. Papa and I have received complementary admission to this weekend’s event in exchange for working this week.
