Cystic Fibrosis is the most common recessive genetic condition affecting children and young adults in Australia today. But despite this Cystic Fibrosis Tasmania receives NO government funding.
We rely on donations, grants and good old-fashioned fundraising but in these uncertain times of COVID-19 that can be challenging. We also appreciate that many businesses have suffered financial losses which limits their ability to donate as generously as they previously would have.
Many of our members have suffered significant challenges during the pandemic including declines in their physical and mental health, job losses, extended periods of isolation, and much more. This is why it's important that we continue to offer the services to our members that they really need. The request for counselling assistance doubled last year as a result of the challenges of the pandemic. But we also spent $25,000 more on member services last year due to extreme demand from our members.
These services include:
Supplying nebulisers and other airway clearance devices free of charge to all our members (These can cost up to $1450 each);
Free psychologist visits to assist with the mental health challenges of living with a life-shortening condition and the challenges of the pandemic;
Direct financial assistance to members through a range of subsidies. For example help with the cost of transplants, hospital stays, fitness equipment, sports registrations and emergency hardship grants);
Educational scholarships to encourage people with CF to continue their studies past Year 12.
Financial help for the costs associated with extended hospital stays;
Individual patient advocacy and support.
These are just some of the many services we offer to support our families. Feel free to contact us to enquire about what else we offer. We would also warmly welcome enquiries about sponsorship and are happy to tailor a package for your business.
Thanks to our generous supporters in 2021 we survived the tough conditions that the year presented and no services were impacted.
With your help we can continue this work in 2022.