Meet Spencer.
He lives with Cystic Fibrosis (CF), a complex disease that impacts the lungs and the digestive system – unfortunately there is no cure.
CF is caused by a defective gene, and this defect leads to complications in the functionality of the lungs leading to infections and long-term damage, and the pancreas, making it difficult for the body to break down and absorb nutrients.
While the prognosis for those living with CF is constantly improving thanks to ongoing research and subsequent treatments, there is still a long way to go.
This is why every year for the past decade, 65km for CF has put on a walking challenge to raise crucial funds for research. We encourage you to sign up with your friends, family and colleagues and get fundraising for this incredibly important cause.
Hi!
My name is Spencer and I’m 8 years old. I live with a genetic condition called Cystic Fibrosis – but I don’t let it stop me from doing my favourite things!
I love sport, all sports, but Rugby League is my favourite and I’m about to start playing my fourth season.
I’m pretty lucky because I haven’t been sick in a while. Mum says I often get sick around early April, but I started taking a new medication last year and it’s helping me feel more energetic and healthier.
Both my twin brothers also have CF, so twice a year we all go to the clinic at Monash Children’s Hospital together. It’s a bit crazy, but we pack lots of snacks and toys to get us through the day.
The clinic staff are really good. They make me feel safe and comfortable, they talk to me throughout our sessions, so I always know what’s going on.
My mum and dad say that the team at Monash CF clinic are amazing and that they offer our entire family so much support, care and guidance. They are strong advocates for me and my brothers, and mum and dad can’t thank them enough for what they do.
I think it’s really important to give back and help with CF research, which is why I ran, walked and rode a total of 65km last May and raised funds through my friends, family and my rugby league club.
I ran the last kilometre of my challenge with my friends at the club, we had a little party to celebrate and managed to get HEAPS of donations!
This year, we’re organising a charity rugby league match to raise funds for 65km for CF. My dad plays in a Masters team, and my Under 9’s team will also play. We’ll have a BBQ, and the Masters team will be playing in a super special jersey that my uncle and I designed together.
The match will not only be about raising money for CF research, but to raise awareness about the condition.
I am PUMPED!
I’d love for you to support our charity match – if you’re keen, you can learn more here.
Thanks for getting behind 65km for Cystic Fibrosis! – you can learn more about the event over at their website.
Spencer loves rugby, and has helped organise a charity rugby match with funds going to cystic fibrosis research.
