Cystic fibrosis is an inherited metabolic disease. As a result of a genetic defect all endogenous secretions are produced thickened. A thick mucus clogs the lungs and pancreas. Organs gradually lose their ability to function. At the end, the persons concerned literally lack the strength to breathe. Despite intensive research effort, the cause of the disease is not yet curable, so that only the symptoms are alleviated.

 The “Snow Star” association, to assist young people with cystic fibrosis, was founded by Marianne Bréchu and Elodie Delaunay in Annecy in 1999. The goal is to support them in vocational integration and to give them and their families a helping hand in dealing with the disease.

Meanwhile, many experts have joined the club, who are able to show the young people how they can deal with their illness. The organization holds regular information evenings, where experts give helpful advice about organ donation and organ transplantations. The "Snow Stars" also organize several sports camps. One such camp is held annually in Chamonix: five days long, the children have the opportunity to participate in sport in the camp near the Mont Blanc. The programme includes mountain biking, snow hiking, climbing and roller blading.

Sport helps to relieve the symptoms. Through the effort, the mucus in the lungs is dislodged, leaving the young patients able to breathe freely again. The sick children also improve their stamina, develop and build up more muscles. Their bodies are thus strengthened for a forthcoming organ transplantation.

The LR GLOBAL KIDS FUND provides financial support for the project of the "Etoiles des Neiges" in France, to give the 6,000 children, who are suffering from cystic fibrosis, a better quality of life.