‘As friends, we have seen at first hand the impact that (familial) pulmonary fibrosis has on a person’s life and those around them. Pulmonary fibrosis causes the formation of connective tissue – or scar tissue – in the lungs, which eventually leads to the lungs losing their function entirely. There is no cure for this condition, and a lung transplant is the only possible solution. As we could not and would not accept this, we organised a walking event in 2012 and 2018 to raise money for the Pender Fund. This fund (administered by the pulmonary fibrosis patients’ association) is dedicated to research into the causes and treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. More information on this can be found at: www.longfibrose.nl/steun-ons/penderfonds

In 2012 and 2018, the walking event was a huge success on all fronts, and on both occasions we were able to donate a very generous sum to the Pender Fund.

This has helped ensure that inhibitory medication is now available on the market, that more is known about the abnormal gene, and that there is greater awareness of the importance of moderate exercise. Our friend, amongst others, has benefited from this and been given a new lease of life through a lung transplant. This would not have been possible without the immunosuppressive medication. This encouraged us to organise the event once again, in the hope of helping even more people and out of gratitude that the money is being put to such good use.

‘We hope that lots of people will enjoy the walk, but our main aim is to raise money to fund research so that this terrible disease can be treated.’

If you have any questions or comments, please check the website: www.wandelenvoorlucht.nl