Paddling For Cystic Fibrosis

LEONARD BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHY/ COURTESY PHOTOS

Two hundred paddlers are gearing up for an epic adventure, making their way across the Atlantic Ocean. It’s all part of the “Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis” to support the non-profit Piper’s Angels Foundation.

Paddlers leave Bimini, Bahamas, at midnight on Saturday, June 22, in standup paddle boards, kayaks and canoes. They will paddle all night in the dark, arriving at Lake Worth Beach about 12-16 hours later.

Paddlers can choose competitive or recreational categories, with solo and relay paddle team options. Each team is accompanied by a safety boat, where volunteers supply food, water and protection during the crossing. The Coast Guard has also been notified of the float plan.

The event was founded by Travis Suit, whose 16-year-old daughter Piper was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age four. An avid paddler, Suit learned about salt air’s benefits for those with this chronic, often fatal disease. And was inspired to help other families care for loved ones with CF.

“From expensive yet lifesaving medication to hotel stays near hospitals to support at home, cystic fibrosis families need help,” says Travis. “In recent years, the lifespan for those with cystic fibrosis has greatly expanded due to new medications and research showing the benefits of fresh, clean air and salt air. But there are so many families worldwide who don’t have access to medication, advanced medical care, and even clean air.”

Piper, who lives in Jupiter and Melbourne, is entering her junior year of high school. She is on the honor roll and is a varsity cheerleader. Last year, she paddled in the event on a relay team and is returning this year.

To date, the “Crossing For Cystic Fibrosis” has raised more than $3 million. Last year alone, the event raised $750,000. Piper’s Angels Foundation has helped more than three hundred families.

The funds raised go to many areas, including urgent financial assistance for families, scholarships to introduce CF kids to ocean water sports, and mediation and mentoring programs.

Piper’s Angels Foundation describes itself as a CF family fighting for other CF families. For more, go to www.pipersangels. org.

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