CF Champion Jessica Forsyth , and Jason Spezza (Ottawa Senators

Recently, the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Ottawa Chapter hosted their 7th Annual 65 Roses Gala at the Hampton Inn & Conference Centre in the Nation’s Capital, raising $200,000 for local Cystic Fibrosis research. Cystic Fibrosis, the most common fatal genetic disease in North America, affects more children and young adults than any other genetic illness. Known to attack the lungs and digestive system, causing severe respiratory and nutritional problems, there is unfortunately still no cure and all afflicted still succumb to lung disease.

The event was co-emceed by CTV Ottawa’s Max Keeping and Catherine Lathem, and along with Celebrity Chairs Shean and Teresa Donovan, the evening was then started off with bluesy Canadian upstarts, the JW Blues Band. The evening included a four-course gourmet dinner, video tributes and exclusive live and silent auctions. Celebs on hand for the event included many Ottawa Senators hockey players, including: Shean Donovan, Chris Neil, Chris Phillips, Jonathan Cheechoo, Nick Foligno, Alexandre Picard, Jason Spezza, and Chris Campoli, (and their respective partners), all who came out to lend their support to those living with Cystic Fibrosis. Throughout the evening, they could be witnessed graciously signing autographs and posing for photographs with fans, and along with past Celebrity Chair Wade Redden, of the New York Rangers, generously donated many sports memorabilia items to this great cause.

“My wife Teresa and I are honoured to be a part of this event and cause. It’s always an unbelievable success due in part to the support of the community”, said 65 Roses Celebrity Chair, Shean Donovan.

A touching tribute to former Cystic Fibrosis ambassador, Emilie Joinette, preceded the announcement of a special education bursary in her name. The aim of the award is to benefit young persons living with Cystic Fibrosis, and as a result, future recipients of the Emilie Joinette Inspiration Award will receive funds in support of their educational pursuits.