Four-year-old Drayden Brimble and his family are giving hope to local families dealing with cystic fibrosis. Four years ago, the Brimble family started fundraising through the University Hospitals Kingston Foundation (UHKF) to support the Cystic Fibrosis Clinic at Kingston Health Sciences Centre’s (KHSC) Hotel Dieu Hospital (HDH) site.

Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis in the first few months of his life, Drayden “Dray” has always been the inspiration for the “Dray’s Field of Dreams” fundraising events. This year, the family organized two fundraising events, a baseball tournament and a fashion show, which raised $20,774 bringing “Dray’s Field of Dreams” four-year event total to $50,629. This gift will be used to assist families with costs that are not covered by insurance such as vitamins, medications, and other expenses related to cystic fibrosis such as transportation to appointments.
 
“Since starting our cystic fibrosis journey, I have made it my mission to assist families dealing with similar daily challenges,” says Jennifer Brimble, Drayden’s mother. “I have been extremely fortunate to have supportive friends, family and local businesses helping raise awareness for cystic fibrosis. I am beyond thankful to everyone that has helped us raise more than $50,000, and I hope one day soon a cure is found.”
 
Cystic fibrosis is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. There is no cure at this time. The disease affects the digestive system and lungs. It’s estimated that one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has cystic fibrosis.
 
“We are incredibly proud and appreciative of the commitment and hard work the Brimble family has shown towards supporting patients and families at the Cystic Fibrosis Clinic,” says Dr. Richard van Wylick, Deputy Head, Pediatrics, KHSC. “This financial support will make a positive difference for families facing cystic fibrosis when they need it most.”
 
“This gift will help families get the support they need so their children can stay healthy,” says Evelyn Maizen, Member, UHKF Board of Directors. “It will ease the financial burden that many families of children with cystic fibrosis face.”