Speeches
Wednesday, 16 April 2025
Reception for Cystic Fibrosis SA Launch of CF Pathways Mentor Program
Rod and I as joint patrons of Cystic Fibrosis SA warmly welcome you to Government House to launch the new initiative CF Pathways Mentor Program.
It is a privilege to do so, as it is a privilege to host at Government House the annual remembrance ceremony where we find peace and solace in the beautiful grounds.
Now, with the launch of CF Pathways Mentor Program, we can find hope and guidance in the important mission to enhance the quality of life for those living with cystic fibrosis.
Thankfully, with advances in treatments and medications such as Trikafta, people with cystic fibrosis are living longer, much longer than before.
But with such advances, comes the need to navigate the cystic fibrosis pathway and life beyond treatment.
Opportunities are now available for people living with cystic fibrosis, which may not have previously been considered.
While, sadly, there are some who won’t benefit from Trikafta, those who can will gain greater life expectancy, for some into their sixties.
And that means people now have an opportunity to plan their long-term finances, consider their long-term diet to be healthy including managing diabetes, and find practical advice on managing life with cystic fibrosis as it evolves.
The Cystic Fibrosis Pathways Mentor Program is a significant step forward and will focus on holistic care, mental health and life skills, family planning and how to connect with a supportive community.
Friends
Collective action is powerful.
United effort is powerful.
The development of this program is an example of that forward-thinking in action.
Rod and I sincerely congratulate all those who have helped it to this launch stage – healthcare providers, researchers, the Cystic Fibrosis community, and organisations such as Cystic Fibrosis SA.
You are all driving positive change.
There are many people to thank today:
- The board and staff of Cystic Fibrosis SA for their vision in creating an innovative program, their hard work and advocacy, and their commitment to the cystic fibrosis community.
- supporters for their generous contributions.
- medical professionals for their research, understanding and care of patients.
- families for your support of each other.
You are all empowering people with cystic fibrosis to lead their best lives.
It gives me great pleasure to officially launch the CF Pathways Mentor Program.