Run and raise money for cystic fibrosis

On Feb. 26, more than a thousand runners will toe the line at the Augusta University Half Marathon, 10K and 5K. A handful of these runners will be a part of the 65Roses charity team.

65Roses is a team of individuals who run and raise money to financially assist cystic fibrosis patients cared for at the Augusta University Cystic Fibrosis Center.

All funds raised by 65Roses are donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, whose focus is research, and the Cystic Fibrosis-Reaching Out Foundation, which provides financial assistance to cystic fibrosis patients. This assistance may include insurance copays, mortgage payments or gas money. Both foundations fund the Augusta University Cystic Fibrosis Center.

In 2012, 65Roses participated for the first time in what is now called the Augusta University Half Marathon, 10K and 5K. The team was composed of approximately 25 runners, and together, they raised $15,000. Every year since, the team has raised at least $10,000 through the Augusta half marathon for a total of $46,000.

Runners who join the 65Roses team for the 2017 races will receive $5 off registration. Use promo code 65ROSES at augustahalf.org.

To donate or volunteer, visit milesforcf.org/augusta or like 65Roses Augusta on Facebook. For more information, call 803-335-8736 or email miles4augusta@yahoo.com.