Ms Norrish has three children, two with cystic fibrosis and the other is a carrier of the genetic condition.
Her best friend died from cystic fibrosis a few years ago.
These experiences with the debilitating illness have motivated Ms Norrish to establish Paint the Town Red Day, to raise awareness and funds for research and care of people living with cystic fibrosis.
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READ NOWMs Norrish’s eldest son Brandan (10) was diagnosed with the condition when he was just three weeks old.
‘When Brandan was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, he was given a life expectancy into his teens,’ Ms Norrish said.
‘Ten years later, his life expectancy is 37.’
She said this was because of advances in treatment and management of the condition.
Her second son Cameron (6) does not have the condition, but is a carrier of the gene disorder.
Her daughter Addison (3) was also diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby.
Ms Norrish believes in living a healthy, active lifestyle and leads by example for her three children.
‘I compete in triathlons, play netball and have just taken up competitive swimming again,’ she said.
‘I push them to function normally and stay active. And they don’t get out of their chores.’
Ms Norrish said Brandan and Addison had to take up to 60 tablets each day, including oral antibiotics, to manage their conditions.
Brandan takes part in regular sport, including swimming and netball in summer, and football and basketball in winter.
He was the Youth Ambassador for the Cystic Fibrosis WA walkathon and competed in the HBF Run for a Reason last year.
Brandan is now training for this year’s HBF Run for a Reason on May 26.
Ms Norrish is encouraging businesses and residents to get involved in Paint the Town Red Day in York on May 31 ” Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Day.
‘We would love everyone in town to wear red on the day,’ she said.
‘It can be anything from a shirt to a headband or socks.
‘I want to raise awareness in the community.
‘People often look at cystic fibrosis sufferers and think they are healthy, but they are not healthy on the inside.’
More than 70 businesses in York and Northam have already signed up for the fundraiser.
‘Cafe Bugati, in York, will donate $1 from each coffee it sells on the day to CFWA,’ Ms Norrish said.
– To find out more about Paint the Town Red Day, visit tinyurl.com/ap5zztm.