In our second installment of Inspirational Women, we direct the spotlight at Josette Falzon; a truly motivational woman, activist and mother. She is a powerful driving force; creating awareness and fundraising for a cause close to her heart, Cystic Fibrosis. Josette dedicates her life to finding a cure for the genetic disorder that has affected her life. Her daughter Fran was diagnosed just 4 months after her birth. Cystic Fibrosis is a complex disease affecting the lungs, pancreas and other organs. There is no cure, and although significant progress has been made in treatment many lives are cut too short. Josettes dedication struck us because of her sheer determination and positivity. She embodies the women we support and admire. Her life has become a testament to celebrating her daughter Fran and the brave individuals fighting this destructive disease.
We sat with her and her daughter, asking them questions to encourage any individuals or families facing the same situation. 1) What drives you to contribute and dedicate so much to Cystic Fibrosis? Josette: One word, Francesca. And subsequently all other CF sufferers, always hoping to see off CF. 2) With having Cystic Fibrosis, what does it mean to you to have a mother who is so dedicated not only to you but also to the cause? Fran: It amazes me every time I think about the crazy amount shes raised so far through all her events. The fact that she organizes each one alone and puts in so much effort is the best example I could ever have from a parent with regards to dedication making its way to success. The work and sacrifices she goes through to give me what I need (and want) is something to look up to and Im hoping to follow in her footsteps in the future. 3) Any advice for parents raising children with Cystic Fibrosis? Josette: With all the hurdles, ups and downs, challenges life offers, remain positive and try to live a normal life as much as its possible. Live in the present and keep looking forward, every day is a blessing for everyone. 4) What advice would you give to parents in regards to providing their children with as much as a normal lifestyle as possible? Fran: Making sure to engage them in every activity they want to participate in and not hold them back. Im so grateful to be able to say that my mum never held me back from doing anything and always pushed me to follow my goals and achieve them despite any setbacks. She is the best motivator.
5) You started Running For A Cause, what motivated you to start and continue it? Josette: I first ran the Malta Half Marathon in 2006 to raise awareness for CF: The following support was overwhelming and I was inspired to raise awareness on a larger scale. The first walkathon had a sea of 200 people walking in CF yellow t-shirts. 6) We can see that you organize a lot of events and fundraisers in aid of Cystic Fibrosis. How does organizing these events give back to the cause? Josette: Apart from awareness, all funds raised go to the CF Trust for research for a cure, which all Maltese CF sufferers stand to gain from. It also gives me my sanity to keep fighting for a cure. 7) How can people participate and help give back to the cause? Josette: Sponsoring and attending the events are very appreciated 8) Seeing as valentines is around the corner, what is ideal way to spend the day? Fran: The classic way to spend it would be with good company; my amazing group of supportive friends who I cant thank enough for the love they give me and all they do, just chilling and eating good food. Josette: My ideal day would be spent relaxing possibly in the sun waiting for my Prince Charming to come with Mvintage jewellery and whisk me off somewhere special haha. For more information on Cystic Fibrosis visit www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk Donations are also appreciated and accepted to the following bank accounts BOV: 40014566804 HSBC: 075105155050
