$1 Museum Day returns
In the early 1960s, a child diagnosed with cystic fibrosis had a life expectancy of only four years.
Today, 50 per cent of Canadians with cystic fibrosis can live well into their 50s and beyond
Nancy Clayton, vice-president of the Niagara chapter of Cystic Fibrosis Canada, says ongoing research is the key to improving the quality of life of those affected by cystic fibrosis.
“Research is so vital, and there have been so many changes in care due to research,” she said.
“CF is no longer the early death sentence that it was.”
Canadian researchers, for example, have discovered the gene responsible for cystic fibrosis, opening the door to targeting the cause of the disease rather than its symptoms. Researchers have also developed diets that have been adopted globally and solved malnutrition in CF patients.
A lot of those research dollars which fuel advances in care come from Niagara Falls residents through the hugely popular $1 Museum Day for Cystic Fibrosis.
The 2018 event, to be held Jan. 14 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., marks the 30th year participating attractions in the Clifton Hill area will offer admission to local residents for only $1.
“People come out and support us no matter what the weather might be that day,” Clayton said. “I’m seeing generations now...people who came as kids are now bringing their kids.”
Last year’s event raised more than $20,000.
“We never have a goal as anything we make is wonderful,” Clayton said.
To visit the attractions, proof of Niagara Falls residency must be shown. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Clayton has been organizing the popular community event since 1988.
“Never in a million years did I think we’d still be doing this 25 years later,” she said.
Clayton credits the attractions for making the signature event such huge success.
“The continued support is wonderful,” she said. “Our relationship has really blossomed over the years. We are truly partners in this.”
One partner which has been involved in the event since its inception is the Guinness World Records Museum.
“We think this is such an important cause and the event also benefits the locals too,” said Debbie Graham, attractions general manager at Guinness. “It’s a win-win for every one.”
According to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has cystic fibrosis. The fatal genetic disease causes various effects on the body, but mainly affects the digestive system and lungs.
For more information, visit www. cysticfibrosis.ca or call 1-800-3782233 or 905-354-7170.