CYSTIC Fibrosis ACT is calling on Canberra residents, schools and community groups to ‘get bouncing’ in a bid to raise awareness and funds for next month’s Big Bounce, an upcoming national campaign supporting those with cystic fibrosis.

It is expected that up to 65,000 participants will get moving as part of the nationwide initiative to tackle cystic fibrosis – the country’s most common life-shortening condition affecting 60 persons in the ACT.

Participants are encouraged to sign up during March by registering themselves or a team online to fundraise by hosting a Big Bounce party or setting a Big Bounce exercise challenge.

Cystic Fibrosis ACT President, Tania Minogue, said The Big Bounce message was two-fold as the campaign promotes regular exercise and an active lifestyle while illustrating the health benefits of bouncing for those with the condition.

“Bouncing is not only great fun and a great way to exercise, it also improves the quality of life for those with cystic fibrosis as jumping helps clear the sticky mucus in the lungs, airways and digestive system which can cause infection,” Tania said.

“People with cystic fibrosis are highly recommended to participate in exercise like trampolining everyday as the motion is great for keeping the lungs healthy and strong.

“We are encouraging Canberra workplaces, schools, families and friends to host a Big Bounce party at home or go along to a local trampoline or gymnastics center to get behind the cause while benefiting from a great workout.

Ms Minogue said money raised from The Big Bounce will provide support and critical services to those with the condition and their families.

“Cystic fibrosis is a degenerative, life-shortening condition that affects many of the body’s systems, including lungs and digestion. More than 3,000 Australians live with cystic fibrosis, and one in every 2,500 babies are born with the condition,” she said.

It is uniquely devastating to families as children with cystic fibrosis require daily physiotherapy and medication and live to an average age of 38 years. For more details on The Big Bounce or to register, visit www.bigbounce.org.au or call (04) 01 990 111.