the second ANNUAL cocktail for a cure

We are pleased to present the long awaited SECOND annual Cocktail for a Cure (CFAC) benefiting the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) . After a long four years, we’re thrilled to have guests (returners and first timers!!) join us for a fantastic night in support the Foundation’s efforts to find a cure for this rare and cruel disease that impacts the lives of over 40,000 people in the United States.

Come dressed to impress in cocktail attire (guys: suit no tie; girls: cocktail dresses) and enjoy a full open bar, live DJ, and VIP access to an after party following the event! We are partnering with a nearby bar in DC (location to be announced the night of the event) to keep the party going all night long.

2023 Committee Members: Ella Cooper, Laney Siems, Paige Wingate, Katie Baird, Marley Obrecht, Allie Brent, Kate Snouffer, Kitty Glick, Mary Carson Burke

cystic fibrosis

In people with cf, mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene cause the CFTR protein to become dysfunctional. When the protein is not working correctly, it’s unable to help move chloride -- a component of salt -- to the cell surface. Without the chloride to attract water to the cell surface, the mucus in various organs becomes thick and sticky.

In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps germs, like bacteria, leading to infections, inflammation, respiratory failure, and other complications. For this reason, minimizing contact to germs is a top concern for people with cf.

In the pancreas, the buildup of mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that help the body absorb food and key nutrients, resulting in malnutrition and poor growth. In the liver, the thick mucus can block the bile duct, causing liver disease. In men, cf can affect their ability to have children.

CYSTIC FIBROSIS FOUNDATION

The mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is to cure cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with the disease the opportunity to lead full, productive lives by funding research and drug development, promoting individualized treatment, and ensuring access to high-quality, specialized care.

@LIFEASLANES

Many of us got involved with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation through our friendship with Laney Siems. Laney was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 5 months old, and has courageously battled the disease ever since.

Laney started an Instagram page, @lifeaslanes to help educate people about what it’s like to live with a chronic illness.