It has been one full year since discovering Colin had Cystic Fibrosis, and while
there have been many challenges and lifestyle adjustments for Colin and his family,
we are thrilled that Colin is doing well. Thank you for your support over this past year!
About Colin's 65 roses
In September 2008, Colin was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis in Charlotte, North Carolina at the age of six months. This project was created by his Aunt Sarah after she was inspired by a story her friend shared about a boy he grew up with that now has a tattoo of a rose with the words "65 Roses" underneath. He explained that this was how his friend and many other children with Cystic Fibrosis learned to say the name of their disease.
The image of the rose is now synonymous with support for Cystic Fibrosis causes and is a trademark of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Sarah decided to use this visual example as a way show support for Colin and for Cystic Fibrosis by sending out an email to friends and family and by starting a facebook event called "Colin's 65 Roses". She asked individuals to create a rose for Colin as encouragement to her sister and brother-in-law, Rebecca and DJ. Colin started receiving roses within a few days of the email and each day since, he receives more.
Visit Colin's page to learn about his story and see photos of him and his family.
About 65 Roses®
http://www.cff.org/aboutCFFoundation/About65Roses/
"65 Roses" is what some children with cystic fibrosis (CF) call their disease because the words are much easier for them to pronounce. Mary G. Weiss became a volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in 1965 after learning that her three little boys had CF. Her duty was to call every civic club, social and service organization seeking financial support for CF research. Mary's 4-year-old son, Richard, listened closely to his mother as she made each call.
After several calls, Richard came into the room and told his Mom, "I know what you are working for." Mary was dumbstruck because Richard did not know what she was doing, nor did he know that he had cystic fibrosis. With some trepidation, Mary asked, "What am I working for, Richard?" He answered, "You are working for 65 Roses." Mary was speechless. He could not see the tears running down Mary's cheeks as she stammered, "Yes Richard, I'm working for 65 Roses."
Since 1965, the term "65 Roses" has been used by children of all ages to describe their disease. But, making it easier to say does not make CF any easier to live with. The "65 Roses" story has captured the hearts and emotions of all who have heard it. The rose, appropriately the ancient symbol of love, has become a symbol of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. 65 Roses® is a registered trademark of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
