Cup soiree to aid cystic fibrosis charity

Today may mark 65 Roses Day, but for Jackie Hodson, cystic fibrosis is a year-round reality.

Not just in the form of treatment, which involves about 40 tablets a day, hospital stays and breathing treatments, but also in advocacy and raising awareness.

The latest event to garner support from the Busselton woman is a Melbourne Cup charity soiree hosted by Laundry 43.

Catering and restaurant manager Karis Silke told the Times she had been long keen to host a charity event and had followed Ms Hodson’s story in the media.

Laundry 43 digital marketing and communications co-ordinator Candace Guile — a friend of Ms Hodson — made the connection, and preparations are under way.

All proceeds will go to volunteer-run Conquer Cystic Fibrosis South West which supports research for the 3300 Australians living with CF — a progressive genetic condition affecting the respiratory and digestive systems.

While the average life expectancy has soared in recent years, the median age of death for adults is still just 27 and the life expectancy for children is 37.

Ms Guile said growing old was something most fought against, but for Ms Hodson, it was something to fight for.

“Anything we can do to help her and the others in our community access better treatments and ultimately a cure, we will do,” she said.

The event will be held on the outskirts of Busselton on November 7 and will feature a fashion parade, live music, raffles and auction.

The theme will be based on the 65 Roses story, originally inspired by a young boy’s inability to pronounce his sister’s illness.

For more details on the event, go to the Laundry43 Catering Line or Conquer CF Facebook pages.