What is Shinerama?
Shinerama is Canada’s largest post-secondary fundraiser, originating at Wilfrid Laurier University in 1961. Each year students continue to raise funds and awareness for Cystic Fibrosis, the common fatal genetic disease in North America affecting children and young adults. The Shinerama committee hosts fundraising events throughout the year with all proceeds going directly to CF Canada to help those living with CF!
Laurier Shinerama consistently has the largest campaign in Canada, with the most notable event being the infamous Shine Day that takes place on the Saturday of O-Week. Laurier has proudly been the top fundraising post-secondary school in Canada for 5 consecutive years now. Since 2019, Laurier Shinerama has raised over $200,000 which brings our cumulative total to over three million dollars!
What is Cystic Fibrosis?
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common fatal genetic disease in Canada. It is estimated that 1 in every 1,600 children is born with CF, and there are approximately 4,000 Canadians living with CF today. The disease mainly affects the digestive and respiratory systems, causing a build-up of thick, sticky mucous in the lungs. There are over 2,000 mutations of the CF gene, with side effects and complications vary greatly from patient to patient.
In 1961, the average life expectancy of a person with CF was just four years; today, thanks to continued research, development and fundraising, persons with CF live well over 50 years. However, the battle is far from over – there is currently no cure for CF. Scientists have made some discoveries in recent years and will continue to research. With your support, we will better the lives of those with CF!
