65 Roses

The 65 Roses Story

Back in 1965, Mary G. Weiss had three sons. The oldest was 7 year old Arthur. The next was Richard at 5 years old. The youngest son was Anthony and he was 16 months old. Unfortunately, all three boys had Cystic Fibrosis. So Mary joined the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as a volunteer. She furiously sought out financial support for the CF foundation by reaching out to community and civic organizations.

Mary would spend hours on the phone, raising awareness and financial support to help save her sons and others with CF. Her middle son, Richard would listen to her talk about Cystic Fibrosis with curiosity. On one typical day of calls, Richard walked in the room and said, "Mommy, I know what you are working for!" Mary was surprised at his comment because she never explained what she did and never told him that he had CF. So Mary responded with hesitation and said, "What am I working for, Richard?" He answered sweetly with a smile and said, "You are working for 65 Roses!" Mary was stunned. She really didn't know what to say at first. Tears began to welled up in her eyes. As she hugged Richard with tears running down her cheek, she said, "Yes Richard, I'm working for 65 Roses."

Mary represents all CF families who struggle to find a cure for their children. She was a true pioneer. We salute her and continue fighting the battle in honor of her and her three precious children.

The Weiss brothers, Richard, 5; Arthur, 7 and Anthony, 16 months.

The 65 Roses story has captured the hearts and emotions of all who have heard it. For 47 years, the words "65 roses" have been used by children of all ages to describe their disease. It's easier to say but not any easier to live with.

Since 1955, The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has been the driving force for treatment and a potential cure. Please give to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.