65 ROSES? CYSTIC FIBROSIS?

Roses are a significant symbol for those that have cystic fibrosis (CF). You might think, “A rose representing cystic fibrosis? How did that come about?!”. When a person thinks about a rose, we usually think of love, affection, or even valentines day. I know that it is an ancient symbol of love…but what does that have to do with cystic fibrosis.? This sparked my curiosity. It lead me to researching the correlation between a rose and CF.
Through-out many years, the rose has became the symbol of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the “65 Roses” story dates back to 1965. It was when an observant 4-year old heard the name of his disease for the first time. “65 Roses….cystic fibrosis…65 Roses…cystic fibrosis.” When first hearing the 65 Roses Story, I was intrigued.

Mary G. Weiss was a volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She had three young boys who actually had this terrible illness. One of her 4 year old sons, Richard, was listening closely to his mother as she was working and making calls. He then says to his mother “Mommy I know what your working for “. Now this is interesting! How can a 4 year old possibly know what his mother was doing , especially since he had no clue about this illness that he had. She then asked, “What am I working for, Ricky”. Richard then says, “You are working for 65 Roses.” Mary was stunned. “Yes Rickey I work for 65 Roses.”
In 2014, Richard lost his fight from cystic fibrosis. This story has impacted and captured many hearts of people across the world. Children, even adults, of all ages use the term “65 Roses” to pronounce the name of this horrible disease. Approximately, 3,000 people in the United States and 7,000 people in the nation is affected by this life threatening disease.
For more information visit: https://www.cff.org/About-Us/About-the-Cystic-Fibrosis-Foundation/The-65-Roses-Story/
