Hunter businesses are being asked to donate generously in an attempt to improve the lives of local Cystic Fibrosis (CF) sufferers.

Award-winning Newcastle singer-songwriter Mark Wells has called on the local business community to get behind an upcoming Benefit Concert for CF research, to be held on Friday, 29 May 2015 at the Factory Theatre, Adamstown.

Money raised will directly fund CF research programs at the world class Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).

Corporate sponsorship packages start at $250 and go up to $2000 for the Platinum Cystic Fibrosis Supporter pack, assigning exclusive advertising rights at the concert, amongst other benefits.

Mark says sponsoring the Benefit Concert is one way Hunter businesses can make a positive contribution to a very worthy cause and raise their profile as active supporters of worthwhile community events.

“We know how generous the Newcastle businesses can be when it comes to funding CF research and helping those affected by the disease,” Mark said. “HMRI is well known in the region for the excellent work it undertakes, and we have seen in the past how willing the corporate sector has been to champion its work. We hope that local businesses will live up to their reputation and give generously to this event.”

Mark himself suffers from CF, Australia’s most common life threatening genetic disease, and has benefitted from being part of a HMRI new drug trial to treat the condition.

“A few years ago I was very unwell,” Mark continued. “It all changed after being part of a HMRI clinical drug trial.”

“I went from not being able go for a walk around the block, to being able to run five kilometres without a problem. It was a dramatic turnaround and made a huge difference to my life.”

The experience inspired Mark and his wife Ellie to put on a concert to raise funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis research.

Concert Details:

• What | Mark Wells Big Band Benefit Concert
• Why | Proceeds will go towards adult cystic fibrosis research at HMRI
• Where | The Factory Theatre, St Pius X High School, Park Avenue Adamstown 2289
• When | Friday, 29 May 2015
• Time | Concert 8pm; VIP Party 6:30pm
• Cost | Concert Ticket: $25; VIP Ticket: $75 (includes special early access, food, drinks and more)
• RSVP | Online

*Due to cross infection risks it is requested that people with cystic fibrosis do not attend the concert.