Well, it's that time again: The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's biggest fundraiser, the Great Strides walks, are happening this month. I'm going to the May 17th walk in LA.

Cystic Fibrosis is a condition resulting from a mutation in a single gene that transports ions across the membrane of mucus cells. Its greatest effect is to thicken the mucus in the lungs, leading to frequent infection and subsequent damage from inflammation.

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been the chief source of funding for research towards treatments and potential cures. Largely thanks to their research, the average lifespan of those born with Cystic Fibrosis from 6 months in 1959 to 37 years today. And since CF results from a mutation in a single gene, there is a lot of hope that cures can be found.

So the upshot is: donate to my friend's team, or at least, come walk with us!