Team Nicole - an adventure inspired by love

TEAM NICOLE

Welcome to our second annual Team Nicole event! Last year, we almost doubled our fundraising goal and raised $9,375 for cystic fibrosis (CF) research. This year, our goal is $10,000 and we are excited to get more people on board for the adventure.

Since my niece Nicole was a baby, we've been strong advocates for new research into cystic fibrosis. I have fond memories of doing the Toronto Zoo Walk every year with my family. Over the years, we've seen Cystic Fibrosis Canada make remarkable progress. Just last year, Health Canada approved Trikafta, a drug that is considered to be the single greatest innovation in the history of cystic fibrosis.

TREATMENT

Trikafta has been a highly effective treatment for Nicole in many regards, improving her lung function significantly and reducing infections; however, due to CF-related complications, she has developed chronic pancreatitis with acute episodes. This condition has progressed to the point that Nicole has severe daily pain and it has greatly impacted her quality of life. This year, her family has had many out-of-pocket expenses, as they have invested in many therapies and treatments to help her condition. She is currently under assessment for TP-IAT (total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation), with an upcoming assessment and potential surgery in Minnesota.

FINANCIALS

This treatment would incur costs related to consultations, travel, and housing. The following year will continue to have thousands of dollars of expenses related to helping Nicole regain her quality of life and hopefully return to university.

This year, we have decided to create a GoFundMe page so that we can donate the charitable funds directly to Nicole. 100% of donations will go into a trust fund for Nicole’s treatment plan.

AN ADVENTURE INSPIRED BY LOVE

Our adventure from Muskoka to Aurora is about creating awareness, raising money, and connecting people. There will be some special people joining me along the way:

• My friends Alex, Laurelea, Jodi, and Lisa will cycle and/or swim with me

• My partner Justin will spot us and keep us safe on the road

• My brother-in-law Mike will paddle and play lifeguard for the swim

• My family will hike the last leg of the journey with me

It's one big outdoor adventure inspired by love! We dedicate our efforts to the many friends and family who support Nicole.

It takes a team, and your support means the world to us!

Dave