Friends and family of Snoqualmie student Kaitie Gallagher are teaming up to help fight cystic fibrosis disease.

The team, dubbed Kaitie’s Kingdom, are behind the Snoqualmie Valley Great Strides Walk, set for 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, on the Snoqualmie Valley Trail. Check-in is 10 a.m. at Centennial Fields in Snoqualmie.

Last year, the walk raised $45,000. This year’s goal is to bring in $50,000 to support the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Now in middle school, Gallagher was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis 10 years ago. She continues to battle the disease, which damages her respiratory and digestive systems, but has improved in recent months.

According to the Gallagher family, it is currently an exciting time for cystic fibrosis research. For the first time ever, a drug is being researched which actually treats the core genetic defect of the most common cystic fibrosis gene mutation, which Kaitie has. It’s not a cure, but could help limit the progressive damage in the disease.

The walk is an easy two-mile circuit along the Snoqualmie Valley Trail, followed by a barbecue lunch by Sherm’s BBQ. Everyone who raises $100 will also receive a Snoqualmie Valley Great Strides T-shirt.

To join the team, visit www.cff.org/great_strides/CathyGallagher