HENLEY Brook mother Nicole Huggins hopes local businesses will help lend a hand to support research into cystic fibrosis.
Mrs Huggins is helping to organise the 65 Roses Grand Ball for Cystic Fibrosis on May 15 and said the committee needed donations of goods for the ball.
It is the second year Mrs Huggins has helped organise the annual event. She became involved after discovering her son Andrew (3) was a carrier of the condition.
Cystic fibrosis is a common life-threatening genetic condition that affects almost all major organs in the body, particularly the lungs and pancreas.
A faulty gene affects the body’s ability to process salt, causing a thick mucus to form that affects lung function.
One in 25 people is born a carrier of the condition and it is usually discovered through a blood test of newborn babies.
Mrs Huggins said that while Andrew did not suffer any side-effects of the condition, many sufferers of cystic fibrosis did not reach the age of 30, often dying while waiting for a lung transplant.
She said profits raised from the ball would fund research into more effective treatment and eventually a cure for the condition.
Cystic fibrosis WA will also receive some of the money for equipment, treatment and support for CF sufferers.
“Support from businesses is sought, particularly in the form of goods or vouchers for our silent auction on the evening,” she said.
“We are also trying to source a generous business willing to donate champagne for the pre-dinner drinks at the ball.”
Mrs Huggins said the theme of this year’s ball at Burswood Grand Ballroom would be A Night in Paris.
Call Cystic Fibrosis WA on 9346 7333 or visit www.cysticfibrosis.org.au/wa-events.