Killarney people are being urged to help Cystic Fibrosis Ireland meet its fundraising target of €300,000 on 65 Roses Day, taking place on April 12.

Volunteers will be out in force in two Killarney locations - Dunnes Stores, New Street and Killarney Outlet Centre, Fair Hill - selling purple roses.

Funds raised on 65 Roses Day will help to provide exercise equipment, counselling sessions, and grants for people with CF undergoing a transplant, fertility assessment or families with CF who have recently been bereaved. Funds also go to support Cystic Fibrosis research and the building of new CF hospital facilities and the funding of specialist CF staff.

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs and the digestive system. Ireland has the highest incidence of CF in the world and some of the most severe types. There are more than 1,400 people living with CF in Ireland and the number is increasing each year as a result of improvements in treatment and care.

Supporting the campaign this year and encouraging the public to get involved is Ashling Spillane from Tralee.

“I was diagnosed with CF as a baby so having CF is my normal. But there are things I have to consider that others don’t realise. For example, I have to manage my diet carefully, have daily medications and a regular sport regime to factor in every day to stay healthy,” Ashling said.

“This 65 Roses Day, I am asking everyone to get involved and support 65 Roses Day to help CFI continue to provide supports like the Exercise Grant, Fertility supports and Advocacy services for people with CF in Ireland.”

65 Roses Day derives its name from the way in which young children often first say the words "cystic fibrosis" and seeks to raise much-needed funds for Cystic Fibrosis services and supports for people with Cystic Fibrosis in Ireland.