Cystic fibrosis affects around 10,000 people in the UK and causes problems mainly with the lungs and the digestive system, with both becoming clogged with thick mucus.
Currently the median age of survival for someone with cystic fibrosis is 41 years old. Each week five babies are born with cystic fibrosis, and two people die.
There is currently no cure, but the condition can be managed with medication, physio, exercise and nutrition.
The condition affects everyone differently, but for many it involves a rigorous daily treatment regime including physiotherapy, oral, nebulised and occasionally intravenous antibiotics, and taking enzyme tablets with food. Some people with cystic fibrosis will have a feeding tube overnight.
For those who are very ill with cystic fibrosis and with very poor lung function, daily life can be a struggle as basic tasks can leave them breathless. Some patients use a wheelchair to get around, and use oxygen to help them breathe.
Five years ago I would have regularly joined my father on his sailing trips for a few weeks at a time, and it is an indication of the nature of the illness that these days that is simply not possible as I am not well enough.
I am delighted that he has decided to do this as the money raised will go towards funding vital research into new treatments and improving day to day living standards for those battling the condition, and I wish him all the best for his fantastic adventure.
Dan Goodwin
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