Developments
CF Developments
Multi-Year Policy of Muco & Friends
Annual Financial Accountability
CF Developments
The Muco & Friends Foundation hopes that scientists will succeed in cutting out the defective gene and replacing it with a healthy one. Additionally, Muco & Friends hopes that CRISPR-Cas and other promising techniques will ultimately lead to a breakthrough in CF treatment, making the disease no longer life-threatening. Moreover, Muco & Friends hopes that these therapies will be affordable when they become available.
There is still a long way for scientists to go in figuring out how to introduce new genes into the cell nuclei of individuals with CF. Scientific research brings new insights and improved treatments, enhancing life expectancy.
Scientific research is important but costly! Therefore, the Muco & Friends Foundation supports scientific research into the cause, treatment, and cure of CF by raising funds.
Multi-year Policy of Muco & Friends
The Muco & Friends Foundation has implemented a multi-year policy aimed at achieving sustained progress in its mission to support individuals with CF. This policy involves strategic planning, setting long-term goals, and implementing consistent efforts to raise awareness, funds, and support for CF-related research, treatment, and care. By adopting a comprehensive and forward-looking approach, Muco & Friends aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by CF.
Determined to Defeat CF!
We are a non-profit organization. To achieve our goals, we rely entirely on donations and sponsorships from individuals and entrepreneurs. To overcome CF, collaboration and scientific research are essential!
What is CF?
CF stands for Cystic Fibrosis, also known as mucoviscidosis, mucoviscidose, and fibrosis cystica. It is a hereditary condition that affects the production of the CFTR protein. This protein regulates the transport of salt and water in and out of cells, especially in mucus-producing cells of various organs, such as the lungs and pancreas.
People with CF have abnormally thick and sticky mucus that can block the airways, intestines, and other organs. This can lead to severe respiratory problems, digestive issues, and an increased risk of respiratory infections. The condition is chronic and progressive, meaning that symptoms can worsen over time.
CF is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which is responsible for producing the CFTR protein. These genetic mutations result in a faulty form or function of the protein, leading to excessive production of thick mucus and the associated problems of CF.
While there is currently no cure for CF, treatments are available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include medication, respiratory therapy, physical activity, and dietary management. Research and medical advancements remain essential to enhance CF treatment and understanding
CF and the Importance of Science
The Muco & Friends Foundation hopes that scientists will eventually succeed in removing the defective gene and replacing it with a healthy one. There is still a long way for scientists to figure out how to introduce new genes into the cell nuclei of CF patients. Scientific research brings new insights and improved treatment, ultimately enhancing life expectancy. For this reason, the Muco & Friends Foundation supports scientific research into the causes, treatment, and cure of CF through fundraising efforts.
History of Muco & Friends'
Origin Intrinsic Motivation In 2006, Cystic Fibrosis (CF), also known as taaislijmziekte, was diagnosed in Jari and Puck Zuiderwijk. For the Zuiderwijk family, this news was a tremendous shock. It quickly became apparent that in order to provide tailored treatment for Jari, Puck, and all CF patients, significant funds were needed for scientific research.
This realization led the Zuiderwijk family to initiate a fundraising campaign with the aim of financially supporting scientific research. This financial support for scientific research is crucial for the well-being of CF patients. Scientific studies focus on improving the quality of life and potential cure for CF patients. The family began their efforts by raising money through activities such as collecting at markets and going door-to-door to gather funds. Every cent they raised went to the NCFS (Dutch Cystic Fibrosis Foundation), an advocacy organization for CF patients. The family made agreements with the NCFS that the donated funds they collected at markets and through door-to-door efforts would be directed toward projects that aimed at potential CF cures.
Over the years, these donation campaigns expanded, not just limited to markets and collections, but also including initiatives like the "Verrassingstas" (Surprise Bag) and the "Aap in actie" (Monkey in Action) campaign. Muco, the beloved and brave little monkey, emerged as the mascot fighting for people with CF. The success of selling the 'Verrassingstas' inspired the family's desire to establish a foundation. This wish came true on August 16, 2013, and Muco became the definitive mascot of the Muco & Friends Foundation.
Today, Muco is the flagship sales success of the Foundation. Muco has its own friends, which can be understood in two ways. Firstly, there are the ambassadors, volunteers, and sponsors of the Foundation who play a pivotal role in fundraising. Secondly, every sold Muco becomes a new owner's friend, often children. We hear that children adore Muco and enjoy playing with it. They take Muco everywhere – on vacation, to bed, when staying over, and more.
THE MUCO & FRIENDS FOUNDATION
General Information about the Legal Entity Muco & Friends
Foundation Organization: Muco & Friends
Foundation Phone Number: 06-48152196
Email Address: info@mucofriends.com
Website: https://www.mucofriends.com
Legal Entity:
Foundation Date of Establishment: August 16, 2013
IBAN Number: NL21 INGB 0006 1429 43
Chamber of Commerce (KvK) Number: 58592997
RSIN Number: 853104219
ANBI Status: Muco & Friends Foundation holds the status of a General Benefit Institution (ANBI), granted by the Dutch Tax Authority. This signifies that Muco & Friends Foundation operates without a profit motive and is dedicated to the general welfare.
Composition of the Board
The board of the Muco & Friends Foundation consists of:
Chairman: Mr. D. Zuiderwijk
Secretary: Mr. E.B. de Vries
Treasurer: Mrs. J.M. Zuiderwijk-Emons
Members: Mrs. K. Sahassanondha Schamper
Members: Mrs. J.M. van Strij de Regt
The board members do not receive remuneration for their activities.
Is there a management/daily board? | Yes
Is there a person employed? | No
Is there a supervisory board? | No
MISSION
The foundation aims to: Raise funds to support scientific research into Cystic Fibrosis and organize public actions to raise awareness about Cystic Fibrosis among the general public, whether or not in collaboration with the Dutch Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, legally established in Baarn and registered under number 41188408, as well as everything related to the above or conducive thereto.
The foundation seeks to achieve its goal through the sale of a mascot (a stuffed monkey named Muco Monkey) and possibly other child-friendly products, as well as financing public actions and all other legal means. The financial contributions to the University of Utrecht are intended for two research projects. The first project is "Helping Hands to Cure CF," led by Prof. Ineke Braakman. The second project is "Developing New Technologies to Study CF and its Treatment in Patients' Stem Cells," led by Prof. Jeffrey Beekman.
ORGANIZATION
Position in the Market Muco & Friends believes in the importance of collaboration. By working together with patients and their loved ones, volunteers, entrepreneurs, scientists, and ambassadors, not only awareness about CF is generated, but also a collective determination to steadfastly conquer CF! How beautiful is this?!
Current Project Offer
Purchase and sale of the official mascot "Muco"
Recruiting donors
Recruiting entrepreneurs interested in sponsorship
Sales of Muco plush monkeys, other plush toys, toys, and promotional items at markets, fairs, and events
Fundraising at events
Providing information about Cystic Fibrosis at schools, events, etc.
Efforts to expand the sales network
Utilization of ambassadors and volunteers