Thousands Come Out To Raise Money, Awareness For Battle Against Cystic Fibrosis

NEW YORK(CBSNewYork) -- There are 30,000 Americans living with cystic fibrosis, a life threatening disease that affects the lungs and digestive system.

On Sunday, thousands of New Yorkers made great strides toward a cure, CBS 2's Vanessa Murdock reported.

"I'm sick of taking pills. I'm sick of therapy. I want them to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis," Alexis Stattel, 5, said.

Finding a cure is why 2,000 people gathered in Foley Square on Sunday morning, for the Great Strides Walk.

CBS 2 is a proud sponsor of the walk and our own Lonnie Quinn emceed the event.

"This is the day we raise the most money. How great that it coincides with us having the most fun," Quinn said.

Great Strides is all about raising money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

"We're here to raise a million dollars," one Pelham man said.

For every dollar raised, 94 cents will go toward research and care initiatives that are aimed at curing and controlling the disease.

Many walkers said that those living with the disease, like Courtney Boccio, are an inspiration.

"She teaches me about life every day. To appreciate every day," Lynn Boccio said.

Those lessons were especially true on Sunday, when spirits were lifted in hopes that a cure would be found.

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