Giving Tuesday: Bota Bota x Vivre avec la fibrose kystique

Every year, Giving Tuesday is an opportunity for Bota Bota to join a cause that is close to its heart. This year, we are partnering with Vivre avec la fibrose kystique, the only provincial organization created by and for people living with cystic fibrosis.

Cystic fibrosis is a chronic, life-threatening genetic disease that primarily affects the lungs, as well as the digestive and reproductive systems. Around 4,500 people in Canada are living with it. For 40 years, Vivre avec la fibrose kystique has been an invaluable source of support for patients. “We help both those affected and the community around them, such as caregivers and parents,” explains Gabrielle Phaneuf, Communications and Community Services Coordinator.

They offer five financial assistance programs to support their members in their daily lives. “We ease their burden by reimbursing medication and medical transportation, but we also provide food assistance, medical equipment, and wellness training, including short videos on physical activity, as well as everything related to mental health,” Gabrielle specifies.

In 2016, the organization created Christmas stockings, most of which are assembled thanks to donations. “We coordinate with social workers from pediatric clinics to obtain a list of families who have gone through significant challenges during the year.” This not only brings comfort to these families but also brings joy to children who are hospitalized during the holiday season.

“Cystic fibrosis is a rare and very little-known disease. Support and collaboration truly make a difference for us,” Gabrielle emphasizes. The organization is an essential community hub in Quebec, “especially in the current socioeconomic context,” she insists. “We’ve recently seen an increase in requests for help,” and based on recent trends, the association expects a 33% rise- clear evidence of the necessity of its existence.

“When you are diagnosed with a life-threatening disease, everyday tasks become a mental burden. We’re dealing with a vulnerable population. There is no cure for this disease; it’s with you forever,” Gabrielle explains. “Giving yourself a moment of relaxation can make all the difference in a day, or even a week. For caregivers, it’s also a way of granting themselves a moment of respite, which is so important.”

On Giving Tuesday, Bota Bota will donate 50% of its water circuit revenue from that day to the organization. “This money will help us fund our Christmas stocking campaign, but will also allow us to extend the initiative to hospitalized adults so they, too, can receive something during the holiday season. And, if possible, enhance our financial assistance programs.”

“We want to express our deepest gratitude. These initiatives truly make a difference for us,” Gabrielle concludes.

Little Rayan’s family is among those who will benefit from your donations. “This gesture brings so much joy into our home,” says his mother, Rosie. “It’s a moment when we see Rayan’s eyes light up, when we feel wrapped in support and generosity.”