65 Roses Story

“65 Roses” is what some children with Cystic Fibrosis call their disease because the words are much easier for them to pronounce. Mary G. Weiss became a volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in 1965 after learning that her three little boys had CF. Mary’s son, Richard, listened closely to his mother as she made calls seeking financial support for CF research. Later, Richard told his Mom, “I know what you are working for.” Mary was dumbstruck because Richard did not know what she was doing, nor did he know that he had CF. With some trepidation, Mary asked, “What am I working for, Richard?” He answered, “You are working for 65 Roses.” He could not see the tears running down Mary’s cheeks as she stammered, “Yes Richard, I’m working for 65 Roses.”

Since 1965, the term “65 Roses” has been used by children of all ages to describe their disease. But, making it easier to say does not make CF any easier to live with. The “65 Roses” story has captured the hearts and emotions of all who have heard it. The rose, appropriately the ancient symbol of love, has become a registered trademark of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.