'Dig deep' - Tipperary people encouraged to support vital fundraising drive

There are calls for the people of Tipperary to come out and support a vital fundraiser taking place next week.

Cystic Fibrosis Ireland will host their annual 65 Roses Day on April 11, with a fundraising target of €300,000 set for the day.

Volunteers from Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) will be out and about around the Premier County on the day, selling purple roses to support the work of CFI.

Volunteers will be stationed at Dunnes Stores outlets across the county, including the Davis Road, the Showgrounds and Oakville in Clonmel, Nenagh, Roscrea, Thurles, and Tipperary Town.

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Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. With 33 new cases of CF diagnosed in Ireland each year, Ireland has the highest incidence and some of the most severe types of CF in the world.

The name of the annual fundraising campaign, 65 Roses Day, stems from how young children often pronounce “Cystic Fibrosis” and its objective is to raise vital funds for CF services and supports throughout Ireland.

Áine Stafford from Clonmel is encouraging the people of Tipperary to support the fundraising drive.

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"Having CF brings challenges that I don’t think people always know about. Buying a house and getting a mortgage means life insurance, something that people with CF can struggle with.

"Having the condition, despite a person being well, on the right medication and in good health, has an impact on the process. So I’m asking everyone in the county, to dig deep and give generously on 65 Roses Day to help CFI continue to provide supports to all the families impacted by CF in Ireland," Ms Stafford said.