Beebe Schools are helping raise awareness and money in the fight against Cystic Fibrosis.  In collaborative efforts, Beebe Elementary and Early Childhood raised over $1300.00 to help raise money for C.F. (Cystic Fibrosis) research.
Cystic Fibrosis is a life-shortening, genetic disease that affects about 30,000 people in the United States.  Two mutated genes inherited by the mom and the dad cause the disease.  People born with the disease release too much salt, therefore creating extremely sticky mucus that cannot be cleared properly.  The mucus clogs up the pancreas, making people with C.F. unable to absorb the nutrients they need to thrive.  It also sticks to the lungs, causing low lung function, and a greater chance for infections.  If a person with C.F. is exposed to a simple cold or cough in a grocery store or public place, it could put them in the hospital, or even be fatal.
There is a lot of research going on and the researchers are very close to a cure.   The goal for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to raise money and awareness to help people with C.F. live longer, better qualities of life.  They have helped the life span of a CF advance to the mid 30s, which has more than doubled in the last decade.
Beebe Elementary participated in two fundraising activities for C.F.  We had a “jar wars” change drive for the students, where students competed to see who can bring in the most change.   Mr. Difani’s fourth grade class came in first place, and won Wii time with Dr. Shook.  Teachers also had a fundraiser called Jeans for Genes.  Teachers had the chance to donate money to C.F. in exchange for being able to wear jeans to school for a week.
The Early Childhood helped with the C.F efforts by letting students tape a $1.00 bill to their cans, during their food drive.
Way to go Beebe Elementary and Early Childhood!  Thank you for taking such an active roll in helping us get closer to C.F. standing for Cure Found!