Tom Purdon

13 year old Tom was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis when he was just 6 weeks old and his treatment at the minute involves a daily regime of 6 nebulisers, 3 physiotherapy sessions and approx 20 to 30 tablets. On occasions is admitted to hospital for IV antibiotic and steroid treatment. Despite all this Tom participates in all sports which include rugby and athletics, his school reports and attendance are excellent and he insists where possible his hospital appointments are after school and IV treatments are done during part of the school holidays. Tom's attitude is that he may as well be in school coughing and feeling bad as sitting at home feeling sorry for himself. Tom is a member of Killinchy Youth Organisation and on occasions has participated in lengthy walks up the Mourne Mountains. He has a massive circle of friends in school and around his local area. He has taken part the fun run in the Belfast City Marathon for the Cystic Fibosis Trust and numerous Santa Runs. Tom is in his second year of being in the RYA Sailing Team in Northern Ireland. He represents Ulster throughout Ireland and Great Britain at many events in the Topper Dinghy competitions. This involves sailing throughout the year including the winter but Tom seems to thrive better when out in the sea with the exercise and fresh air. Tom helps organise and take part in many fundraising events with his entire family circle and is a inspiration to us all.