Reaching Out Foundation: Practical Assistance for those Living with Cystic Fibrosis

This week we're breaking new ground here at DP and are highlighting our first health-related nonprofit organization. After hearing the story yesterday from Andrea, a friend of a friend, I must admit I'm excited to craft this post and introduce this organization to you and tell about a fundraising event they are having on October 6, 2006. When you read the story, you will understand why.

The Story

It started two weeks ago when my friend Russ told me of a woman with which he worked.  "I've told her to get in touch with you.  She's got something you have to hear about." He was right.  The conversation with Andrea started with and humble, "I don't think this is really important, but I suppose to help you understand I ought to tell you the story that leads up to this event."

What she told me was-- that due to a calling off of an engagement, she had been left with unused, nonrefundable deposits on facilities and services. "I had a friend in high school who had cystic fibrosis and died because of it, so it seemed perfect for me to use the deposits to go toward an organization who helps people with cystic fibrosis." EEditorial side bar:  How cool, selfless, kind, and admirable is that? 

What came out of Andrea's initial act of generosity was an organized event with additional sponsors with the goal of raising funds for the Reaching Out Foundation.  The event is called "Laugh and a Glass and it will be held on October 6, 2006 from 8-11 at the Houston Mill House in Atlanta."  If you are interested in attending please go to the webpage http://www.laughandaglass.com. Tickets are $40, in advance, and ALL the proceeds will got to Reaching Out and will be used to help people with cystic fibrosis.  The ticket includes an improve comedy performance by Dad's Garage as well as live music, dessert, silent auction and... wait for it.... an open wine & beer bar.  Sounds like fun to me!

About Reaching Out Foundation

Reaching Out Foundation is an all volunteer organization (we like that here at DP cause that means all the money goes to the mission!) started by Susan Burroughs, a adult with CF who is double lung transplant recipient.  Their mission is to provide educational and financial resources to patients and families with Cystic Fibrosis.  In 2003 they provided assistance for 148 families. They work through the referrals of health care professionals and social workers to identify families and individuals who could benefit from their services which include:

• Emergency assistance to provide funds for families who money for room and board to be near their family members while they are hospitalized.
• Insurance Assistance to provide funds to help pay for for co-pays, COBRA payments and premiums so that individuals with CF can get the insurance they need to get proper care.
• Nutritional Assistance to provide funds to help people pay for prescribed nutritional supplements for CF patients.
• Creative Educational programs that provide much needed illness education that helps CF patients become more actively involved in their health care.

Realizing that not everyone can attend the wonderful event, I would encourage you support the Reaching Out Foundation's efforts to help those with CF.

Send Your Dollar Today

Online through their website:  Click here

Via Mail Payable to Reaching Out Foundation:

Cystic Fibrosis-Reaching Out Foundation, Inc.
PO Box 870747
Stone Mountain, GA 30087

Via Network for Good (Donations of $10.00 or more): Click here

Special Note:  Thanks Andrea for sharing your story.