More than 30 paddleboarders will cross international waters over Father’s Day weekend to raise funds and awareness for South Florida-based cystic fibrosis (‘CF’) organization, Piper’s Angels. On June 17, the philanthropic fleet will leave Bimini in the Bahamas and travel more than 50 miles non-stop to South Florida. The team, which will be led by Travis Suit, includes Palm Beach restaurateur, Nick Coniglio, and Director of the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority, Raphael Clemente.
Travis will be leading a team of paddleboarders in the name of his daughter, Piper, who was diagnosed at the age of 4 with an aggressive form of CF. Crossing For A Cure is the flagship event for Piper’s Angels, whose mission is to raise funds for cystic fibrosis research, provide support for families living with the disease, and to share what they have experienced about the scientifically proven link between CF and the healing powers of the ocean.
“We were devastated when Piper was diagnosed with CF. As a dad, to hear that your child is suffering from a disease with an average life expectancy of about 37-years-old, you really feel the weight of the world,” said Suit. “When we heard about the effects that salt water has on the lungs, we knew we had to get her into the ocean immediately. It doesn’t cure the disease, but she doesn’t suffer nearly as much, and we’re hoping that instilling a lifelong love for the ocean will keep her alive as long as possible. That’s why we started Crossing For A Cure. We want to make sure that everyone who suffers from CF knows that salt water can help, and provide them access to enjoy it.”
According to researchers, the inhaled mist of salt water has a therapeutic effect on the lung problems associated with the disease. Scientists are optimistic that the therapy will reduce how often patients are ill and will slow the decline of lung function over time, thus extending their lifespan.
Crossing For A Cure participants will check in on Thursday, June 15 before a day of mandatory safety meetings. The team of paddleboarders will be accompanied by support vessels and staff to guide them across the Gulf Stream. The long-distance endurance paddle challenge is estimated to take about 15 hours to complete. Each participant raised a minimum of $1,000. The event is expected to raise over $50,000 for the disease. All proceeds will go to CF research and local families in the CF community.
The team’s target destination is the Dania Beach Pier, 300 N Beach Rd, Dania Beach, Florida. However, due to the weather events that may change the course and final destination of landfall, supporters are encouraged to monitor the Crossing For A Cure Facebook page, which will have real-time updates.
For more information about Crossing For A Cure, or to make a donation, visit www.crossingforacure.com, or contact Travis Suit at travis@pipersangels.org or by phone at 561-246-0205.