Community Supports Boy, 5, With Cystic Fibrosis

Every now and then we have a moment that forces us to take a step back and, with a breath of fresh air, appreciate what we normally take for granted.  When the electricity goes back on after a blackout or the water starts to flow again from the tap, with a sigh of relief we can continue on with a refreshed perspective. 

But sometimes we just don’t have those moments and we continue to take for granted some things without that refreshing breath of air.  For example, when was the last time you took a moment to appreciate the simple luxury of breathing?  For Marty Tranes, a 5-year-old with Cystic Fibrosis, and his dedicated family, this is a daily revelation.

Marty is one of the 30,000 cases of Cystic Fibrosis in America today.  With unyielding support from his parents, a loving community, and daily medical attention, Marty is able to live throughout each day.   Individuals with the disease experience an unusually thick mucus that can clog the lungs and pancreas, leading to life-threatening lung infections and preventing the body from properly digesting food, but due to recent strides in the medical field individuals can live into their 30s, 40s and often longer.   

A friend of the family shares, “He needs treatments for 1½ hours every morning and every night and is very susceptible to infections.”  As you can imagine, CF will “make kindergarten next year very hard.” Marty’s mother is currently in nursing school, hoping the work schedule will be more conducive to caring for her son. 

However, not even a debilitating disease could dampen Marty’s spirits or hold him back from leading a normal, youthful life. Marty “learned how to snow ski a couple weeks ago and is looking forward to a trip to Disney World in May – courtesy of Make a Wish Foundation,” where he expects to see each and every one of the Disney characters!  Take a sneak peak of Marty’s skills on the slopes – looks like a future Olympian to me!

It seems that we have a lot to learn from this young sprout.  First lesson is to appreciate the simple parts of life that we so often take for granted and second is to show our appreciation for those around us that we look up to. 

A fundraiser for Marty on Wednesday, March 16 at the Endless Vine in Franklin Lakes is a perfect opportunity to celebrate his life and ensure that he has a happy and healthy future ahead of him.  The event starts at 8:30 p.m., with musical performance by Pat Bianco and Mood Swing.  A friend of the family explains that Marty “has such an adorable little belly laugh that makes the whole room light up.” Now, how could you not go?  And bring friends – all are welcome!

How to stay connected:

• Get to know Marty a little better – watch the video his mom put together.
• Become a Marty’s Mega Fan on Facebook to keep track of Marty’s fight each step of the way. 
• Walk in the annual Great Strides walk for Cystic Fibrosis.
• Stay tuned for more information on a wine tasting fundraiser in the spring at the Endless Vine.
• Donate directly to Marty’s fight against CF.  Every dollar is greatly appreciated, as Marty’s lifelong treatments are not covered by insurance.

“Team Town Cycle – Marty’s Fund”
Team Town Cycle
PO Box 557
West Milford, NJ 07480-0557