Cystic Fibrosis Guild Honors CF Foundation Volunteers in Seattle

December 15, 2009

The Patrons of Cystic Fibrosis, a guild of volunteers in Washington state, hosted the 26th annual Breath of Life Gala and Auction to benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Washington Chapter in November.

More than 800 community and corporate leaders from the Northwest region filled the ballroom at the Sheraton Seattle Hotel to raise more than $1.5 million to support the search for a cure.

Guests dined on gourmet cuisine and enjoyed entertainment by teen singing sensation Vince Mira and local Americana band, the Dusty 45s. The live and silent auctions offered exciting items for bid, including trips to Paris, Africa and Hawaii, a custom “12th Man” Seahawks RV and a private concert by The Dusty 45s.

During the live auction, Barbara Greenberg, a junior at the University of Washington and daughter of event chairs Carrie Harwood and Pete Greenberg, gave an inspiring speech about her life with CF. “Three years ago, I had two years to live,” said Greenberg, who had a double lung transplant in 2007. “Today, I’m planning my long term future.”

Each year, the Gala pays tribute to those who show extraordinary commitment to the Foundation’s mission at the event. The 2009 Breath of Life Award was presented to Dr. Bonnie Ramsey and Dr. Paul Ramsey, who have spent more than 30 years dedicated to CF research at Seattle Children’s Hospital and the University of Washington, respectively. “The partnership of Dr. Bonnie Ramsey and Dr. Paul Ramsey has provided a new sense of hope and optimism to a disease that at one time had no hope and little optimism,” said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and CEO of the CF Foundation. “Thanks to their collaborative efforts, we have achieved longer life and better health for those with CF.”

Sydney Pytte (far right) and her friends help present auction items at the 26th annual Breath of Life Gala and Auction in Seattle, Wash. Sydney was diagnosed with CF as a toddler.

Many Thanks

The Washington Chapter extends deep gratitude to its volunteers:

Grant Goodeve, Emcee
Pete Greenberg and Carrie Harwood, Co-chairs
Sandra & Barry Hachler, 2008 Breath of Life Award Honorees
Alicia & Bill Schmidt, Patrons of Cystic Fibrosis Guild Presidents

And to its corporate sponsors:

Supernova Sponsor: Geneva Foundation,
Nova Star Sponsors: Alaska Airlines, Gilead, The Lissy Moore Foundation, Northland Services, Inc., Sheraton Seattle Hotel