Why the Rose?
Red Roses are often considered to be the ultimate expression of natural beauty. Their magnificent bloom and fragrance juxtaposed on a thorny stem have captured imaginations for centuries.As a living thing they can endure harsh conditions but flourish with care and attention and can live for a very long time. They are timeless.
Many parallels can be drawn. The condition Cystic Fibrosis (CF) imposes harsh conditions on the lives of those who suffer with it and their families and yet there is a resilience and charm about each person as a result of their struggle and connection with the beauty of life. Recent advancements made through medical research relating to the treatment of CF have led to extended life expectancies, which gives great hope for people living with CF.
For these reasons the Red Rose seems a most appropriate symbol for Cystic Fibrosis and is used nationally. It is enhanced by the often-told story of a young boy who could not pronounce his sister's condition Cystic Fibrosis and instead called it '65 Roses'.
In August 2001 Cystic Fibrosis Australia and its member States launched their new national logo, a rose.
