Imagine being told as a child that your illness meant you likely wouldn't live to see your 30s. Now, picture reaching that milestone, but facing a life you never planned for. This is the profound and challenging reality for a growing number of Australians living with cystic fibrosis (CF).
A New Generation Outliving Expectations
For decades, a diagnosis of cystic fibrosis came with a heartbreakingly shortened life expectancy. Sarah Morrissey, Executive Manager of Fundraising and Marketing for the charity CF Together, explains the seismic shift. "Thanks to improved treatments, we are now at the first point in time where people with CF are actually living into adulthood and beyond," she says.
While this medical progress is celebrated, it has created an unexpected existential crisis. "This is a great place to be, but it's also led to an existential crisis for people in our community who were told in school that you are not going to live into your 30s," Morrissey notes. "So they didn't bother studying or thinking about a career or saving or learning about any of those things because there was no point."
The mental health impact is significant. Individuals are navigating a future they were never prepared for, leading to what Morrissey describes as "a minefield of mental health challenges."
Practical Support Through Hospital Packs
To provide tangible help during difficult times, CF Together has created special hospital packs for patients facing extended stays. This initiative was made possible by a Community Grant from the Commonwealth Bank (CommBank).
The packs are designed to offer comfort and practical relief. "We have created special hospital packs to try to relieve the strain and the boredom and the mental health battles of being in hospital," Morrissey explains. The contents are thoughtfully curated to address multiple needs.
- A voucher to help alleviate the financial burden after discharge, such as for groceries.
- Hand creams, snacks, and books to provide distraction and comfort.
- Overall, the aim is to offer a sense of care and support during a stressful period.
"We like to think of the hospital packs as being a big warm hug," Morrissey adds. For the charity, which relies heavily on community and corporate support, the CommBank Community Grant means everything.
Corporate Backing for Community Impact
Nathan Barker, Executive Manager of Community Investment at CommBank, expressed pride in supporting CF Together. "CF Together is doing amazing work to make a real difference and our grants are designed to make sure that impact extends further," he stated.
Barker highlighted the vital role of grassroots organisations. "It's organisations like CF Together that identify areas of real need in our communities and consistently work hard to provide deep care for the people around them." He confirmed CommBank's commitment to ensuring "these vital services are able to receive continued support."
The CommBank Community Grants Program is delivered through the CommBank Staff Foundation. It recognises organisations making a tangible difference and allows bank staff to nominate meaningful causes. Since 1917, CommBank employees have supported communities through donations and volunteering, with the Bank matching staff contributions to amplify the funding's reach.
This partnership underscores a critical support system for Australians with cystic fibrosis, helping them not just to live longer, but to build a fulfilling life in the years they once thought were impossible.
