All bloom, no doom and gloom: Cystic Fibrosis Ireland seeking the support of Kildare this 65 Roses Day 2025

People across County Kildare are being urged to help Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) meet its fundraising target of €300,000 on 65 Roses Day 2025.

The name of this annual fundraising campaign stems from how young children often pronounce "Cystic Fibrosis" (CF) and its objective is to raise vital funds for CF services and supports throughout Ireland.

As explained by the charity, CF an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system.

With 33 new cases of the illness diagnosed in Ireland each year, Ireland has the highest incidence and some of the most severe types of CF in the world.

Due to recent advancements in treatment and care, more than 1,400 people are living with CF and the number is increasing. 

However, CFI has said that it conducted a recent survey which has shown that, despite these recent advancements, "significant challenges" — accessing medication to obtaining financial products such as insurance — still exist for people living with the condition in Ireland. 

In an effort to support CFI so that it can try to address these challenges, volunteers in Kildare (as well as across the country) will be selling purple roses this 65 Roses Day, in Dunnes Stores branches, shopping centres and other participating outlets.

Some of these outlets will include: Dunnes Stores in Maynooth; Dunnes Stores in Naas; Dunnes Stores in Newbridge; and in the Whitewater Shopping Centre in Newbridge.

According to the organisers, the much-needed funds raised on the day will be used to help provide supports to answer  challenges facing patients of CF.

In addition, the funds raised will also allow CFI to invest in CF-related research, specialist CF clinical teams and services to improve care for those living with CF, with the aim of ultimately finding a cure.

'A GREAT REASSURANCE'

Encouraging people in Kildare to go out and support the charity on 65 Roses Day this year is Thomas Henry from Newbridge.

Mr Henry said: "Having Cystic Fibrosis brings with it challenges that I don’t think people know about.

"I work as a hairdresser and am upskilling at the moment so life is busy, but in everything I do, CF is a constant consideration, and it is great reassurance to know that CFI are there with support or advice if I need it."

He added: "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."

People in Kildare can get involved this 65 Roses Day by donating online at 65roses.ie or by purchasing a purple rose in participating outlets throughout the country. 

65 Roses Day 2025 will take place on Friday, April 11, 2025.

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