BOZEMAN, MT The Cody Dieruf Foundation unveiled the design for their new specialty license plate, set to release in January 2022, named Drive for Hope. The plate costs $20 a year, in addition to normal registration fees, and will be available at any Motor Vehicle Department office. 

Proceeds from the license plate will help fund the Cody Dieruf Foundation’s programs and operations, which support the emotional and financial health of those living in Montana with cystic fibrosis. This support comes in the form of three programs: a scholarship for fitness expenses, reimbursement for medical costs, and a retreat for mothers raising children with cystic fibrosis. 

Pam Western, the Executive Director for the Cody Dieruf Foundation, said “Our medical assistance program helps with travel expenses as well, not just direct medical costs. When you get the Drive for Hope plate, that money is helping someone with cystic fibrosis visit their doctor. It’s almost like they’re riding with you.”  

Currently, Montana only has one certified cystic fibrosis care center housed within the Billings Clinic in Billings, MT. While the team does travel, it is often essential for those living with cystic fibrosis to still visit the main clinic. If a patient needs to travel multiple times a year, this can become a large expense. 

“We just opened our programs to the entire state of Montana this year, so we’re excited to help more people living with cystic fibrosis,” said Pam, “but the farther somebody lives from Billings, the more expensive their travel is going to be. We hope this plate will help us continue to be able to get people to their doctor.”  

The plate features a topographical pattern with the numbers 406, Montana’s area code, printed vertically along the left side. The design is meant to signify the foundation’s commitment to Montana, and their pride in their home state. 

Cystic fibrosis is a progressive, terminal, genetic disorder that currently has no cure. Those born with cystic fibrosis have thicker mucus, which can clog important pathways in the body. While symptoms may vary, most individuals living with cystic fibrosis can expect to have digestive issues, reduced lung function, and a worsened immune response.  

To learn more about cystic fibrosis and the Cody Dieruf Foundation, visit breathinisbelievin.org.