Big E Hosts Cystic Fibrosis Run/Walk

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Scott Pittman, Enterprise Carrier Strike Group Public Affairs

USS ENTERPRISE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) participated in a flight deck walk and run to raise awareness for cystic fibrosis, May 6.

Chief Warrant Officer Two Rahzine Brown, of Enterprise's Reactor department, began organizing the event in honor of Brady Keep, the 3-year-old son of Brown's long-time friend and shipmate, Chief Electronics Technician Jeff Keep, who serves aboard Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Norfolk (SSN 714). Brady is currently battling cystic fibrosis.

"We came out to show support for our friends and families back home so they know, just because we're on deployment, we still remember them and their struggles," said Brown. "There was a cystic fibrosis walk in Virginia Beach [May 5], so we decided to show our support by having one on the ship [May 6]."

Cystic Fibrosis, also known as mucoviscidosis, is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs, pancreas, liver and intestinal tract. The most serious symptom is difficulty breathing caused by frequent lung infections. Other symptoms include sinus infections and stunted growth, along with pancreatic scarring and cyst formation.

"I got an email saying that there was a run to support a little boy with cystic fibrosis," said Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Patricia Melendez. "I'm a runner and hate running on treadmills, so I said 'why not?' It's for a good cause."

The event was coordinated by Brown in conjunction with Enterprise's Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) staff, and was approved through the chain of command.

"It didn't take as much to organize this as I thought it would," said Brown. "I received support from everyone I talked to about this event, including the executive officer, who approved the Walk-A-Thon, and the Handler (Aircraft Handling Officer) who secured part of the flight deck for us for the run. It came together quite well."

MWR staff and volunteers were on the flight deck providing water to the runners to help combat the Arabian Sea's heat and humidity.

"It feels like an honor to be able to show someone back home that we care even in the middle of deployment," said Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Tabitha Gentry. "It's a nice Sunday morning to get out and run for a good cause."

The awareness walk and run was held on a no-fly day, a rare commodity as Enterprise continues its 22nd and final deployment. Enterprise is currently operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.