Apopka Cops and Firefighters compete to defeat Cystic Fibrosis this weekend

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, genetic disease that causes persistent lung infections and limits the ability to breathe over time.

In people with CF, a defective gene causes a thick, sticky buildup of mucus in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. In the lungs, the mucus clogs the airways and traps bacteria leading to infections, extensive lung damage, and eventually, respiratory failure. In the pancreas, the mucus prevents the release of digestive enzymes that allow the body to break down food and absorb vital nutrients.

According to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, in the United States:

More than 30,000 people are living with cystic fibrosis (more than 70,000 worldwide).

Approximately 1,000 new cases of CF are diagnosed each year.

More than 75 percent of people with CF are diagnosed by age 2.

More than half of the CF population is age 18 or older.

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It's been about a year since Officer Jason Wiggins and Sargeant Steve Harman of the Apopka Police Department started talking about an event that would raise money for Cystic Fibrosis.

"Sergeant Harmon has two nephews with the disease," said Wiggins. "So for him this really hits home."

Now a year later, that idea will become a reality this Saturday as the Apopka Police and Fire Departments, along with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation will host the first annual Cops & Firefighters for CF event at the Northwest Recreation Complex (3710 Jason Dwelley Parkway in Apopka).

The contest pits police and firefighter teams against each other in eight events that will challenge their skill, physical fitness, and agility in front of cheering crowds of supporters.

There will also be food, music and family activities. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Florida Chapter.

Prize sponsors are Spikes Tactical, Special Ops Tactical, Condor Tactical, SWAT Life, Safariland, & Point Blank.

The US Marine Recruiters in Altamonte Springs will be on hand, and will also help judge the events.

The SeaDog Brewery and Chicken and Waffles food and beverage trucks will also be on site. There will also be a raffle for prizes and Cops & Firefighters For Cystic Fibrosis shirts will be on sale.

You may pre-register for the event here.

Registration is at 9am. The events start at 10am and will conclude at 1pm.