PERTH Hills nine-year-old Norah Bashford is helping raise awareness for cystic fibrosis (CF) ahead of this year’s 65 Roses Day fundraiser.

Norah, who lives with cystic fibrosis, will join her family in selling around 300 roses as part of the annual fundraiser supporting Cystic Fibrosis WA.

Her mother Nyssa Woodward said Norah and her twin brother Cole would sell roses at Norah’s local school on May 28, while family members would also help distribute roses through workplaces including Australia Post.

More than 400 West Australians live with cystic fibrosis, a genetic condition that mainly affects the lungs and digestive system.

Nyssa said Norah’s health had improved significantly in recent months after a difficult period where her lung function had declined.

“We just had a review and it has been the best her lung function has been for a long time,” she said.

“Swimming lessons and physical activity have really helped pick her back up.”

Nyssa said Norah was currently taking modulator therapy drug Trikafta and was expected to begin transitioning to a newer treatment, Alyftrek, in coming weeks.

Despite the improvements, managing CF remains a daily challenge.

Norah completes physiotherapy sessions morning and night, uses a nebuliser daily and takes around 30 tablets each day, including vitamins, salt tablets and medication to aid digestion.

Nyssa said Norah had become increasingly confident managing the condition herself.

“She can have sleepovers now and she is quite proud of showing her friends how easily she can take all her medications,” she said.

This year marks the 18th annual 65 Roses Day fundraiser in WA, with organisers hoping to sell 28,000 roses across the state.

Cystic Fibrosis WA chief executive Lisa Bayakly said advances in treatment had transformed the outlook for many people living with CF.

“Five years ago, only a few West Australians had compassionate access to new-era treatments,” she said.

“Now, around 80 per cent of our community are benefiting from them.”

Ms Bayakly said funds raised through 65 Roses Day helped provide support services, advocacy and resources for people living with cystic fibrosis and their families.

Rose stalls will operate across WA on Friday, May 29, including at Midland Gate.

More information about the fundraiser can be found online.