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Foundation Hopes To Raise Funds, Hope For Cystic Fibrosis Month

ROYAL OAK (CBS Detroit) A Royal Oak non-profit foundation is dedicated to making sure no parent experiences the pain of losing a child to cystic fibrosis. They're looking for public support in May -- which is recognized nationally as cystic fibrosis awareness month.

Roughly 30,000 children and young adults have CF, and 10 million people are carriers. Molly and Emily Bonnell, daughters of WWJ 950's Laura Bonnell,  were both diagnosed with the disease, spurring their parents  -- who had no idea they could be CF carriers -- to create the foundation. It's dedicated to connecting families with children newly diagnosed with the disease and long-time CF families.

They're working to raise awareness -- and funds -- for CF research and scholarships.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that causes chronic and fatal lung infections, and interferes with digestion. At this time there is no cure and the average life expectancy is 37 years old. Medications are helping people newly diagnosed with CF live a more productive life.

And non-profit organizations like the Bonnell Foundation are helping families navigate a life with CF. Anyone who needs help with medical bills, lung transplant funds or a college education can visit the Bonnell Foundation.

Visit www.thebonnellfoundation.org to find out more about CF month.

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