The Swimathon for Cystic Fibrosis, backed by Fairfax Community Newspapers, is on Saturday, February 11, at the Wollondilly Community Leisure Centre.

In the past three years, the swimathon has raised more than $150,000 for cystic fibrosis services and research.

‘‘Research gives us a better understanding of how treatments work and how people live with their cystic fibrosis,’’ chief executive of Cystic Fibrosis NSW Alex Huntir said.

‘‘We’ve already seen a tremendous increase in the life expectancy based on pretty simple improvements in clinical-based research with local doctors saying ‘I’ve noticed this or that’.

‘‘We think if someone was born today with CF they would live to about 55 because of the improvements.’’

CF affects the lungs and digestive system and those born with the condition face a lifetime of daily physiotherapy, nebulisers and taking up to 40 tablets a day. There is no cure.

Julie Free, from western Sydney, was diagnosed with CF when she was six.

Her mother Penny said support shown at the swimathon every year meant a lot to her family and others living with cystic fibrosis.

‘‘So many people have commented that through the swim they realise that they’re not battling this alone — there are people in the community behind them,’’ Mrs Free said.

‘‘That’s a really important thing for us because it can be a really isolating condition.

‘‘The fund-raising is really important but it’s also the awareness.’’

To support the swimathon, visit www.everydayhero.com.au/event/

swimathonforcysticfibrosis.