If you're wondering what's new in the world of cystic fibrosis research, or if you're wondering how you can get involved with a clinical study, you won't want to miss the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's upcoming webinar, "CF Clinical Research: Learn, Ask, Join".

The webcast, which is scheduled for November 19th, will feature basic principles of cystic fibrosis research, participation in clinical trials, and the latest updates about cystic fibrosis drugs currently being studied. The webinar is free but you have to pre-register on the CFF website.

How the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Can Help You

Twenty years ago, Dr. Francis Collins and two of his colleagues discovered the cystic fibrosis (CF) gene. Earlier this month, the newly appointed director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) was the keynote speaker at the 23rd Annual North American Cystic Fibrosis conference. Dr. Collins spoke about how much we have learned about CF since his breakthrough discovery, and the life-lengthening treatments that we now have because of it. Then, this brilliant and highly respected scientist pulled out a guitar and began to sing a song that he wrote about finding a cure for CF called "Dare to Dream". It was a heartwarming, inspiring moment that ended in cheers and a standing ovation from the crowd.

Wish you would have been there? Yeah, it would have been great. You can still catch the performance online, though.

Check out the video clip of Dr. Collins singing "Dare to Dream" .

If you or somebody you know has a car that's just taking up space in your driveway, I've got good news for you. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation has partnered with the National Vehicle Donation program to offer you the opportunity to turn your unwanted vehicle into cash for cystic fibrosis research. You can donate any kind of vehicle -- running or not. All you have to do is contact National Vehicle Donation at 800-456-5517 or go their website to register your donation. They will make all the arrangements to have your vehicle picked up and sold at auction or sold for scrap metal - whichever would produce the best selling price. Once your car is sold, about 80% of the proceeds will go directly to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as a charitable donation that you can claim on your taxes.

What could be easier than that? You get to help support cystic fibrosis research, dispose of your clunker without any hassle and get a tax deduction to boot - all with one quick phone call.

More about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

As we head into another flu season, it's important to remember that we're not out of the woods yet with H1N1 swine flu. The virus continues to rear its ugly head as the world awaits a vaccine. There still is no definite release date, but the vaccine is expected to be available sometime this month. When it is available, people with cystic fibrosis and their family members should get the H1N1 flu shot in addition to the regular seasonal flu shot. You should be able to get the vaccine at your CF care center or local health department. You can also visit the American Lung Association's flu clinic locator to search for a vaccine site near you.