Pioneering access to Cystic Fibrosis treatment

 

Hundreds of people in South Africa struggle with Cystic Fibrosis, a life-threatening disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. Treatment for the condition exists but the cost for treatment creates a barrier that makes it virtually non-existent for so many South Africans. Breath-taking Fundraising NPC is a non-profit organisation that helps South Africans with Cystic Fibrosis to access medication while simultaneously raising awareness about the condition.

                                         

Breathtaking enables and empowers individuals to utilize their communities to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis patients. They make the fundraising process simple providing templates, platforms, and educational materials for people to get started. A core aspect of their programming is their collaboration alongside the South African Cystic Fibrosis Association (SACFA), where they work together increasing public awareness of the condition, its diagnoses, and the importance of increasing access to medication.

                                                  

Sakhisizwe spoke with Breathtaking's Director of Fundraising, Mare Smit. In our conversation we discussed the intentions of the Organization and why it has chosen to focus of Cystic Fibrosis. Mare informed us on everything Cystic Fibrosis including symptoms, treatments, and diagnoses. Given some of the issues facing people with the disease, our conversation also addressed the current needs of people with the disease, and how Breathtaking is working to meet them.

To learn more about the Breathtaking Foundation, you can visit their website. You can otherwise find them on Instagram and Facebook at @breathtakingfundraising.

To listen to our conversation, click the video below.

Presenters: Jasnine Roberts, Nadia T

Producer: Nadia T