Local musicians crusade for Claudia

Claudia Sweeney was born under a lunar eclipse. Since she came into this world on Nov. 8, 2003, life has challenged her, and she has challenged back.

Sweeney was born with a collapsed lung — it resulted in her being hospitalized for two weeks.

That was just the beginning.

It took about two years of testing before doctors eventually found out what was wrong with the young girl. She is taking more than 30 pills a day to fight damaging lung infections and weighs 52 pounds.

On Aug. 24, 2012 she had to have feeding tube inserted to feed her while she sleeps in the hopes of gaining weight. This is just part of what life is like for someone living with cystic fibrosis (CF).

“Approximately one in every 3,600 children are affected by CF,” a media release stated.

“It is the most common genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. CF is a multi-system disease, primarily affecting the lungs and digestive system.

"In the lungs, where the effects of the disease are most devastating, a build-up of thick mucus causes increasingly severe respiratory problems. It may be difficult to clear bacteria from the lungs, leading to cycles of infection and inflammation, which damage delicate lung tissue.”

To help Sweeney and her family, local musician Jean-Paul St. Onge is championing Claudia's Crusade with a goal of raising $10,000 to help with the cost of medical expenses not covered by OHIP or health plans.

Local bands Toe Jam Tequila, After 6 and the Blues Brotherz are taking the stage at the Caruso Club Jan. 11.

Advance tickets can be picked up for $10 at Jett Landry Music, Caruso Club, Prom Music, Guitar Clinic and Records of Wheels or $15 at the door.

A silent auction will be set up at the event, and donations will also be accepted.

For more information, contact 705-207-9444.