MATT Suckling will play his 65^th career game on Saturday against the Eagles at Aurora Stadium and he’s celebrating it for a good cause.

While most players focus on milestones such as their 50^th, 100^th or 200^th game, it is Suckling’s role as a Cystic Fibrosis Victoria (CFV) Ambassador that gives this game particular significance.

The number 65 is special to everyone associated with cystic fibrosis (CF) as children who find it difficult to pronounce the name of their condition refer to it by the more attractive title of “65 Roses”.

Throughout May and June the CF community in Australia encourages people to undertake challenges based on the number 65 to help raise awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis.

Suckling’s challenge will be to help Hawthorn win against the West Coast Eagles in his 65^th Game.

“Matt is a fantastic role model for kids living with CF,” Ms Felicia Welstead, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Cystic Fibrosis Victoria said. 

“His comeback since being sidelined with injury last year is a testament to how success comes from hard work and determination.”

“Physical fitness and ongoing exercise is really important for people living with CF and it can often be a battle but the health benefits are usually worth the effort. Matt really helps get this message across.” 

Suckling became a spokesperson for Cystic Fibrosis Victoria last year, largely because he admired the cause and simply wanted to help. 

But since then, one of his family members in New South Wales has had a baby diagnosed with CF, giving his work for the organisation greater personal importance.

Footy fans can show their support for Suckling’s milestone by donating to the 65 Roses Appeal at www.cfv.org.au.

Suckling with kids at the 65 Roses Day at Queensbridge Square last Saturday.

About Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is the most common inherited, life threatening disorder in Australia. 

More than 700 Victorians living with CF require significant daily medications and physiotherapy and frequent hospitalisation.  It is a seriously life-limiting condition for which there is currently no cure.  D

espite major advances in the treatment of CF, only 50% of those born with this condition currently reach their late thirties.  One in 25 Australians is a healthy and generally unaware carrier of the defective CF gene.  Greater understanding, better treatments and increased support is now needed.

About Cystic Fibrosis Victoria
Cystic Fibrosis Victoria (CFV) is the peak community not-for-profit organisation working with and for people with CF right across the state. 

Its mission is to assist everyone affected by CF to be well and live fuller lives.  It provides information, support and guidance to people living with CF and their families.  It advocates for services and systems that support the CF community and seeks to raise awareness, understanding and funds for services and research. 

Over 80% of CFV income is from fundraising.