From Bimini to Lake Worth, some 200 paddlers are planning to cross the Atlantic Ocean to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Crossing for Cystic Fibrosis. The event was founded by Travis Suit, whose daughter Piper, now 15, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) at age four. Suit also founded Piper’s Angels Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to helping those with CF and their families.
The group of paddleboarders, kayakers and canoers will leave the Bahamas at midnight on June 24 and paddle all night to make the 80-mile trek, arriving 12-16 hours later back in the U.S. There, they are expected to be greeted by thousands of well-wishers in a beachside celebration.
Suit learned about how salt air has benefits for those with CF, a chronic and progressive, genetic disease that affects the lungs, pancreas and other organs. An avid paddleboarder, Suit decided to help others who are having to pay for expensive, life-saving treatment.
“In recent years, the lifespan for those with Cystic Fibrosis has greatly expanded due to new medications, as well as research showing the benefits of fresh, clean air and salt air. But there are so many families in the world, who don’t have access to medication, advanced medical care, and even clean air,” says Suit.
So far, The Crossing has raised more than $461,000. Last year, 204 families were served through the Piper’s Angels Foundation.
This year for the first time, Piper will paddle in The Crossing on a relay team.
Visit pipersangels.org
