Walk-a-thon event to help fight cystic fibrosis

     By Tina Allen
     View staff writer
      The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is seeking people to take steps in the fight against the most common genetic disease in the United States through its Great Strides walk-a-thon.
      "This is our largest grass-roots event," said Vince Garth, director of the Nevada chapter. "It is an event for the entire family, and it is also the one event that our C.F. community is most active in. We get the greatest turnout from patients and parents."
      The 3.1-mile walk is scheduled for May 21 at Hills Park in Summerlin. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., and the walk begins at 10 a.m.
      Garth is hoping the event garners 500 walkers this year, a number that would almost double last year's turnout.
      The foundation's goal is to bring in $55,000 generated from walkers' sponsors and local businesses. Prizes will be awarded to walkers who collect a specific amount of funds. For example, the participant who turns in the most money exceeding $1,000 on or before walk day will receive round-trip, coach-class air transportation for two on American Airlines-American Eagle to one of more than 170 cities.
      Walkers who raise $50 will receive a T-shirt. Money should be collected before the day of the event and turned in at the check-in.
      The Great Strides walk-a-thon has taken place in cities nationwide for the past 11 years. The foundation's Nevada chapter opened four years ago. Garth said it is taking time, but people are becoming more aware of the disease.
      "It reflects in our fund-raising," he said. "Two years ago we raised $31,000 with the walk; last year we were at $43,000 and we should make our $55,000 this year. More and more people are getting involved."
      But the only way for people to get involved is for them to hear about it, he said. Unfortunately, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has limited means of spreading the word. Because the foundation uses most of its money raised -- 90.5 cents of every dollar -- it does not advertise unless space is donated.
      Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease which causes the body to produce an abnormally thick, sticky mucus. This abnormal mucus leads to chronic and life-threatening lung infections and impairs digestion. Currently there is no cure.
      The disease affects about 30,000 children and adults nationwide and 130 in Southern Nevada.
      The event will include a free barbecue of hot dogs and hamburgers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. In addition, there will be dance and gymnastic performances by youth groups. Rio Rita, Blue from "Blue's Clues" and Winnie the Pooh also are scheduled for appearances.
      Other upcoming fund-raisers for the foundation include a wine tasting in July, a halfway to St. Patrick's Day party in September and a formal gala set for October.
      "I just want to see people attend the events," Garth said. "I don't necessarily need their money, just their minds to network our cause and help us reach out to the community."
      Those interested in the walk-a-thon or any future events can call 383-8500. Walkers also can register for the event online at www.cff.org.