Ireland now has more people living with cystic fibrosis than ever, according to Cystic Fibrosis Ireland.

One in every 19 Irish people have the inherited disease, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI) Ambassador Aoife Rafter told Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

She said Ireland has the highest rate of the condition in the world – and more funds are needed for a bigger population.

She said there are better outcomes for CF patients thanks to improved services, but CFI still relies on donations every year.  

Today is 65 Roses Day, the national fundraising day for cystic fibrosis. CFI is calling on people to support the charity by donating online at www.65Roses.ie or buying a purple rose in Dunnes Stores or other participating outlets nationwide. 

The charity is seeking to raise €350,000 this year.

CFI is also encouraging people to enter the 65 Roses Challenge, where participants can complete any challenge with a “65 theme”. This includes a 6.5km cycle or walking 65,000 steps.  

“Constantly unwell” 

Ms Rafter shared her own experiences with CF on the show.  

She said her family did not know she had the disease until she was 10 years old as she was originally misdiagnosed with severe asthma.

“I was just constantly unwell; I’d miss so much school,” she said. “My sisters were younger than me and just past me straight away.” 

"It really takes a toll"

Ms Rafter said her whole life is “really affected” by her condition, including her social and professional life.  

“It really takes a toll when you're admitted a few times a year,” she said.  

“I can't really over commit myself to a thing, I need to be able to let some things off when I'm just not well enough to attend.”

Ms Rafter was also diagnosed with cervical cancer when she was 27.  

She said she has developed more “holistic” health practices: “My health is the best it’s ever been now, because I take more of a wider approach than just medication.” 

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