Then why not undertake a 65 Roses Challenge for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s 65 Roses Day on Friday April 8? Getting its name from the way in which children often first say the words “cystic fibrosis”, 65 Roses Day has a special place in the hearts of Irish people. Ireland has the highest incidence of cystic fibrosis per capita in the world among its indigenous population, with more than 1,400 people living with it.

A 65 Roses Challenge can be any 65-themed challenge – from walking 65,000 steps, to running 6.5K, to cycling 65K, the sky is the limit. This year, for the first time in three years, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s annual appeal will see volunteers out in force selling purple rose pins in towns and villages all over Ireland, as well as in participating Dunnes Stores, shopping centres and other outlets nationwide.

Modern pentathlete and triple Olympian, Natalya Coyle, is urging people to rise to the challenge on Friday April 8: “For people living with cystic fibrosis, life is a constant challenge having to plan around their condition to keep on top of things and try to stay healthy. That’s why I’m doing a 65 Roses Challenge and encouraging others to do the same. The great thing about it is that it is so open – you can play to your activity levels or your passions and do whatever you want to do to challenge yourself. You can get really inventive too – from 65 lunges, to running up and down the stairs 65 times. Do whatever will make the day special for you.”

For full details on the 65 Roses Challenge, or to donate, visit www.65Roses.ie.