​​Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand (CFNZ) is calling on Kiwis to get moving this September and make their sweat count by taking part in Sweatember, an annual fundraiser supporting New Zealanders living with cystic fibrosis (CF).

Now in its sixth year, Sweatember challenges participants to commit to a sweaty activity of their choice throughout the month, with friends, family and colleagues donating in support.

Christchurch dad, Eddie Ashton, whose 16-month-old son Noah has CF, is one of those taking part in Sweatember. The preschool teacher will be swimming 3000 laps of a 25m pool to raise funds for the cause.

“I did swim a little when I was younger but this will definitely be a challenge and I am a little nervous!” said Ashton.

“Cystic Fibrosis NZ has been amazing with their support. It’s very daunting to find out your child has cystic fibrosis but they’ve helped us a huge amount so this is a great opportunity to raise funds and give back.”

The Ashton family is also awaiting Pharmac’s decision regarding funding Trikafta for children aged 2–5, a move that would be life-changing for families like theirs.

“Getting Trikafta from an early age would be a massive help to support Noah’s health long term, so we’re really hopeful it’ll be a positive decision.”

Olympian and CFNZ Ambassador Dylan Schmidt is also taking part in Sweatember.

“As an athlete, I know how powerful exercise can be, and for people with CF, it’s literally life-changing,” said Schmidt.

“I’ve been involved in Sweatember a few times and it’s a great way to support the CF community. I’m challenging my fellow athletes as well as everyday New Zealanders to get involved and support this great cause.”

CFNZ Chief Executive Lisa Burns is encouraging New Zealanders to get behind Sweatember.

“Sweatember is a powerful reminder that movement is medicine. For people with CF, every breath is hard-won and exercise helps make those breaths possible. But it’s more than physical. It’s about reclaiming joy, building resilience, and feeling connected to something bigger,” said Burns.

“Sweatember is deeply personal to our community. Behind every drop of sweat is a story of parents hoping for breakthrough treatments, of children learning to live bravely, of adults fighting to maintain their physical health. When you move during Sweatember, you’re standing with them. You’re saying, ‘I see you. I support you.’

“We’re aiming to raise $50,000 to fund our critical support programmes that help people with CF live longer, fuller lives. Whether you’re donating, dancing, running, or simply showing up, your sweat counts.”

CF is a progressive, genetic condition that affects more than 600 people in New Zealand. It causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time as well as significantly impacting other organs.

Funds raised from Sweatember will be used to advocate for better access to CF care and medications, provide information, counselling, transplant and hospital support, and fund research. It will also support Breath4CF grants, which help people with cystic fibrosis access exercise and activities that strengthen lung health.

Make your sweat count. Visit www.sweatember.org.nz to sign up and get sweating, or donate to the campaign.

ENDS

About Cystic Fibrosis NZ (CFNZ):

Cystic Fibrosis New Zealand (CFNZ) was founded in 1968. It is a well-respected charity delivering a range of vital services. We support many of the more than 600 people and their families affected by cystic fibrosis (CF) in New Zealand.

We work with people of all ages from pre-school age to adults to change the trajectory of their lives. We are here to extend and improve the lives of those living with CF.

CFNZ relies on the generosity of donors and support from the philanthropic and business community. Our vision is that people with CF are thriving and living healthy lives. We are committed to ensuring that individualised and meaningful support is available at every part of their CF journey.