American Airlines is donating $1.1 million to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, after their successful Celebrity Ski event early this month.
AA has had a long relationship with CFF, which works to raise awareness and fund research into the disease.
“For nearly four decades, we’ve gathered on the ski slopes with a group of generous team members, sponsors and supporters of the foundation to rally for the fight against cystic fibrosis,” said American Airlines Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Ron DeFeo. “While the event is filled with skiing and fun, the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is incredibly important, and we are proud to do our part in combating this serious disease.”
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition which causes the body to generate a faulty protein, affecting the way the body generates fluids such as sweat, mucus, and digestive fluid. It usually affects breathing, digestion, and the skin in ways which may be fatal. There is no cure, but CFF and American Airlines hope their contributions might lead to one.
At the March Celebrity Ski, over 400 people attended the benefit event, including Olympic athletes, famous musicians, and movie stars. Together, they donated over $1.1 million in a single night. Added to 37 years of previous benefits, American Airlines has donated over $45 million for research, treatment, and advancements.
“American Airlines, our longest-standing corporate supporter of nearly 40 years, has advanced our mission for all those living with cystic fibrosis — raising more than $45 million cumulatively,” said Patrick Feeley, Chief Development Officer, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. “Their generosity has led to more people with CF living longer than at any time in history. Special thanks to this year’s event sponsors — Title Sponsor American Airlines; Co-presenting Citi and MasterCard; Diamond Sponsor T-Mobile for Business; and Platinum Sponsor FedEx. We are immensely grateful for your support.”
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