By Staff
Jonathan Willis
A local group will hold a bike ride next weekend to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Cystic fibrosis is often identified in small children and affects the body's lungs and digestive system. Reports show that 30,000 people have the disease, with one person dying each day.
Steve Scott, of Russellville, helps organize the annual bike ride that raises money to fight the deadly disease.
"All the money we make goes to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation," Scott said.
"Most of the money the foundation receives goes to research."
A new Alabama law enacted this year requires every newborn baby to be tested for the disease. The earlier cystic fibrosis is identified and treated, the less damage it does to the lungs and digestive system.
Studies show that both parents have to be carriers of the gene for it to be passed on to a child.
Scott said the more money that goes into cystic fibrosis research, the better chance there is for a cure to be found.
He became involved with the effort because of a friend whose grandchild was diagnosed with the disease.
"It's something that I think is very worthwhile," Scott said.
"I think we can all dig in a little bit to help."
Registration for the bike ride will begin at 9 a.m. on June 14 at Jonathan's Steakhouse on U.S. 43 in Russellville. The ride will begin about 10:30 a.m.
Scott said several door prizes and t-shirts will also be available.