Cystic Fibrosis Canada

4,500

Canadians are living with CF

or younger was the age of half the Canadians with CF who passed away in the past five years

35% | 65 %

of Canadians with cystic fibrosis are children | adults

About

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting children and young adults in Canada, causing severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. As a progressive disease, CF gets worse over time and tragically, half of those who died from CF in the past five years were 40 or younger. There is no cure — yet.

Cystic Fibrosis Canada is the national leader dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians living with cystic fibrosis. With a proud 65-year history, Cystic Fibrosis Canada has driven critical advances, from funding the discovery of the CF gene to advocating for access to life-changing treatments today. Cystic Fibrosis Canada strategically invests in research, clinical trials, and improved care models that address the evolving needs of the CF community. Our advocacy work ensures equitable access to medications and reduces the financial burden on families.

By connecting people, researchers, clinicians and advocates across the country, we are building a future where all Canadians with cystic fibrosis can live longer, healthier, fuller lives beyond the limits of this disease.

“The gift I created today for Cystic Fibrosis Canada is going to shape a healthier future.”
– Jo-Ann Thow, Legacy Gift Donor and Volunteer

Our Impact

We’re leading the transformation of cystic fibrosis (CF) care in Canada through research, advocacy, clinical support, and community connection, helping people with CF live longer, healthier lives.

Research: We’ve driven major scientific breakthroughs, including the discovery of the CF gene. Today, we continue to invest in high-impact research that reflects community priorities. People with CF help review proposals, guiding funding toward projects that matter most. Our support fuels innovation, attracts top researchers, and expands access to clinical trials.

Advocacy: We push for equitable access to life-changing treatments through government engagement, policy work, and our clinical trials network, which helps bring new therapies to Canadians faster.

“It’s motivating to know that our planned gift will have a direct impact on those living with the disease.” – Reg Smith, Legacy Donor and Breath of Life Award Recipient

Care: We support specialized CF care that address physical and mental health. Our Mental Health Resources Hub connects people to tools and services. This year, we’re collaborating with clinicians and the community to update Canada’s CF care guidelines.

Community: We foster connections and reduce isolation. Peer Connect brings people living with CF and their caretakers together in virtual spaces led by trained volunteers with lived experience.

How your gift will be used

A legacy gift to Cystic Fibrosis Canada is more than a donation — it’s a lasting investment in a future free from cystic fibrosis.

Your gift will help drive the next wave of scientific breakthroughs, advancing bold, innovative research that brings us closer to a cure. It will ensure that every person with CF, no matter where they live, has access to the treatments and care they need — when they need it.

“I know that my gift will continue to drive research in cystic fibrosis. That is my legacy for the future.” – Sandy Tapper, Legacy Gift Donor and Summerhayes Society Member

With your support, we can continue to build a future where care is not only comprehensive but compassionate, addressing both physical and mental health needs, easing the burden on individuals and families, and creating stronger connections across the CF community.

A legacy gift creates lasting change. It is a powerful expression of hope – a promise that future generations will face a world where CF no longer limits lives.