HURRICANES CENTER TO RECEIVE QUEEN'S GOLDEN JUBILEE MEDAL

CALGARY, Alb. (Dec. 10, 2002) - Rod Brind'Amour, veteran center for the Carolina Hurricanes, will receive a Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal to recognize his support for the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, in a special ceremony at the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire on Thursday in Calgary.

Brind’Amour was nominated for the award by the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CCFF) for his outstanding contribution in the fight against cystic fibrosis. Not only is Brind'Amour a wonderful role model for all children but he is also a special hero to children and young adults who have cystic fibrosis. He has helped raise more than $180,000 in his hometown of Campbell River, B.C. by hosting an annual golf tournament and auction for the past six years. He is dedicated to the CF cause, and in a yearly speech to hometown crowds, talks about the realities of cystic fibrosis (CF) and its impact on those who suffer from it and on their families.

“I am honored to receive this medal,” said Brind’Amour. “I intend to continue working to defeat CF until we succeed.”

Seven years ago Mr. Brind’Amour and his then girlfriend, now his wife, Kelle opened and read a letter written by 14-year-old Kim Black, a youngster from Campbell River who was struggling with CF. A very special bond was formed. Brind’Amour’s support for the fight against cystic fibrosis has never wavered, and his help has meant more funds for scientific research so improved treatments can be found. Brind’Amour has also helped raise the profile of CF, which is the most common fatal genetic disease of young Canadians.

“I greatly admire and appreciate how Rod selflessly takes the time to help fight cystic fibrosis” said Kim Black, now 21, who will present Mr. Brind’Amour with the medal.

The Golden Jubilee Medal of Queen Elizabeth II commemorates the 50th anniversary of Her Majesty's reign as Queen of Canada. The Medal is being awarded to Canadians who have made a significant contribution to their fellow citizens, their community or to Canada. Mr. Brind’Amour has represented his country at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, Japan. Through his personal successes, he has inspired many young Canadian athletes and takes the time personally to motivate individuals at yearly autograph sessions in Campbell River. Mr. Brind’Amour also recently played the 1,000th game of his NHL career.

Assisting in the presentation to Mr. Brind’Amour will be Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation vice-presidents Chris Black (Kim’s mother) of Campbell River and Laura Read of Calgary. Cathleen Morrison, Chief Executive Officer of the CCFF, will also participate.

“Rod’s contribution has had an impact not just on my daughter’s life, but on the lives of all Canadians with CF,” said Chris Black.

“With the support of friends such as Rod Brind’Amour, Canadians have been able to play a leading role in the international CF effort,” says Morrison. “The progress has been dramatic, but there is an urgent need to sustain the momentum.”

Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis, which attacks the lungs and digestive system, is one of the most deadly inherited diseases affecting Canadian children and young adults. In 1960, babies born with cystic fibrosis were not expected to live long enough to start school. Today, many individuals with CF are living into their thirties and beyond. Although there have been great advances in research and treatment, cystic fibrosis is still fatal.

The Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a world leader in the fight against CF. Canadian researchers funded by the CCFF discovered the gene responsible for cystic fibrosis in 1989, and continue to play a leading role in the world-wide race to develop new treatments for this devastating disease. The Foundation raises funds for research and public awareness, through the generosity of thousands of individual Canadians, a network of 52 volunteer chapters across Canada, and the important support of major national partners, including Zellers Inc. and the Kinsmen & Kinette Clubs of Canada.