What Is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:

• clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and
• obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

To learn more about Cystic Fibrosis, please view the video on our home page www.cff.org

Natalie Jocovic

Natalie Jocovic started SF-FIND in 2008 after relocating from Sydney, Australia where she managed several alternative health clinics. Her passion for helping others led her to pursue a certification in Life Coaching. As she started to meet people she often heard “You live in the city too, don’t you find it difficult to meet people?” It was then that she realized the lack of free social groups focused on transforming strangers into friends.

Originally from Los Angeles, Natalie realized her passion for charity work and event planning as sorority President in college. She loved the idea of a social network of young professionals focused on raising funds and awareness for charity. Friends Interested in eNding Disease is simply that; a social networking group benefitting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This amazing organization gives hope to those affected by this devastating disease. www.cff.org Young people truly do make a difference in the world and SF-FIND is a fantastic example of making it happen!