Second Annual Pacsun Pipeline To A Cure Gala to Benefit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Southern California Chapter, is pleased to announce that the 2nd Annual PacSun Pipeline to a Cure Gala is to be held on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach, California. Hosted by surf legends and honorary co-chairs Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama, the event will benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and is sponsored by PacSun, a leading surf, skate and youth lifestyle retailer.

The evening will feature a special headline performance from Shiny Toy Guns as well as a performance from former American Idol Season 8 contestant Kai Kalama. Chris Cote, surfer and current Editor-in-Chief of TransWorld SURF, will emcee the event, with radio personality Shawn Parr as the night’s auctioneer. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has chosen Mike Sullivan “The LA Car Guy” as their 2009 PacSun Pipeline to a Cure honoree and will be awarded at the event for his generous contributions to the organization and program over the years. For the second year in a row, Mike Sullivan has generously donated a new Toyota Prius to the opportunity drawing.

The CF Foundation’s PacSun Pipeline to a Cure campaign was initiated after research showed that young cystic fibrosis (CF) patients who surf had healthier lungs. CF is a fatal genetic disease that causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus, which clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections. Doctors in Australia determined that inhaling saltwater mist has a powerful effect on rehydrating the lining of the lungs and allowing CF patients to more easily eliminate bacteria-contaminated mucus. This “saltwater” breakthrough has led to hypertonic saline treatments which CF patients around the world use daily. While average life expectancy has doubled in the past 25 years to age 37 -- due to advances in treatment and care -- funding is still urgently needed to find a control or cure for cystic fibrosis. With almost 30 potential therapies in the drug development pipeline, there is tremendous hope for the future of those living with this disease.

The PacSun Pipeline to a Cure campaign is raising funds and increasing global awareness of the unique bond between the sport of surfing and those with cystic fibrosis. Last year’s inaugural gala raised more than $400,000 for research and patient care.

“For the CF Foundation, the PacSun Pipeline to a Cure campaign and gala brings the CF message to a new audience of potential supporters with a passion for the ocean. So many in the surfing community, upon learning of the positive impact on those with CF, have enthusiastically embraced our cause and we hope this event only furthers their interest and commitment,” said Colleen O’Higgins, Executive Director, Southern California-Orange County CF Foundation.

Event co-chairs include Paul Motenko, co-founder of BJ’s Restaurants; Jerry Hennessy, co-founder of BJ’s Restaurants; Judy Burlingham, owner of Coast Benefit Consultants; and Todd Elder, owner of Newport Surf Camps. PacSun Pipeline to a Cure would like to thank Chop Shop and Fuel TV for their continued support to the cause.