A portion of each NFL Flag Football of Rockford registration fee is donated to the Boomer Esiason Foundation fpr Cystic Fibrosis. Cystis fibrosis is a fatal genetic disorder that affects over 30,000 Americans. This disease is marked by chronic infections, clogged airways, and digestive and reproductive problems.

In cystic fibrosis patients, problems occur because the mucus in their lungs is very thick and sticky. Instead of serving as a lubricant, it clogs the respiratory system and allows bacteria to grow within it, impairing the body's natural defenses. The thick mucus also obstructs the pancreas, preventing enzymes from reaching the intestines to digest food.

The disease, which is not contagious, usually is diagnosed in early childhood. The most reliable diagnostic test is the "sweat test," aptly named because most cystic fibrosis patients have skin that is salty to the taste. Other common symptoms of CF include chronic cough and difficulty breathing, frequent sinus and respiratory infections, nasal polyps, excessive production of mucus, recurrent pneumonia, frequent foul smelling stools and diarrhea, enlarged fingertips, and sterility in males.

The daily rigors of living with cystic fibrosis is tough both on the children afflicted with the disease and on their families. Fortunately, a combination of therapy and pharmaceuticals can help keep the symptoms under control and enhance the child's quality of life. The long-term treatment process includes: enzymes that help in digestion; high doses of antibiotics during bacterial infections; daily therapy sessions that include special exercises to loosen and promote drainage of the mucus; other types of exercise to strengthen breathing and cardiovascular function; proper nutrition and vitamins; and several inhalation treatments each day to cut through the mucus.