Last weekend’s “Hope Breathes Here” walk raised more than $8,000 for the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation’s (CPFF).

It was their third annual walk to raise funds to support awareness and research for a disease that affects more than 30,000 people in Canada including more than 700 people in Saskatchewan.

Organizers say the strong turnout despite the walk moving indoors due to air quality concerns is a demonstration of the community’s determination to support those affected by Pulmonary Fibrosis.

The Foundation says for many people living with the disease oxygen eventually becomes part of daily life and in Saskatchewan, access to portable oxygen can be particularly challenging because of medical eligibility requirements and limited funding.

As well, for people living with PF, staying active is an important part of maintaining health and independence. Without reliable access to portable oxygen, something as simple as taking a walk can become a significant challenge.

Across Canada, access to medically necessary oxygen can depend on where a person lives, how they qualify for coverage and whether they can afford significant out-of-pocket costs.