Debra Berlet has kept a steady pace for more than two decades to reach the top spot at the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
The Red Deer resident, who was named president of the CCFF board of directors May 1 at the annual general meeting in Ottawa, is excited to take over the helm of the national organization during its 50th anniversary year.
“I feel extremely proud to represent all of the people across Canada that fight against this disease every day,” she said.
Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease that affects the whole body but primarily plagues the lungs and digestive system. It causes progressive disability and often early death.
The ongoing battle against cystic fibrosis is one that is close to her heart.
Berlet, 55, first got involved with the CCFF Edmonton chapter when both of her children were diagnosed with the disease at a young age — Megan was diagnosed when she was nine-and-a-half months old while her older brother Jordan was diagnosed at the age of three.
“I felt it was, other than doing the treatments and encouraging a healthy lifestyle, it was the only thing that I could do that would actually make a difference,” Berlet said of her reasoning for getting involved with the organization.
When her children were diagnosed, the average median life expectancy for those with cystic fibrosis was just 15 years of age.
Today, Jordan, 27, is expecting twins in June with his wife, while Megan is preparing to celebrate her 25th birthday and second wedding anniversary.
While her kids have grown into active, happy and successful adults, Berlet is as committed as ever to help find a cure.
Berlet was pleased to report that the latest statistics released found that in 2007 the Canadian average median life expectancy was 47.7 years of age, 10 years older than those in the United States.
She was president of the Edmonton chapter before moving to Red Deer.
She quickly got involved with the local group and was also named chapter president here. She become the regional director of Alberta, a position she held for five years before being elected as a director at large. From there, she continued to advance her role on the executive committee in a variety of positions.
Now she is settling in as president for what will likely be a two-year term.
“Basically to try and lead the board in making good strategic decisions to move us forward,” Berlet said of her new responsibilities.
“We want to ensure we raise the amount of money we have to spend on research and continue to make the progress we’ve been making, and accelerate it if possible.”
The mandate of the CCFF is to raise awareness as well as funds for research initiatives and services for Canadians suffering from cystic fibrosis,
Berlet’s first Red Deer appearance as president of the national organization will be at the Great Strides Walk for cystic fibrosis that takes place May 30 at Pioneer Lodge.
ptrotter@www.reddeeradvocate.com