Summer time on the beach isn't just fun, it can also be life-saving.

Researchers studying cystic fibrosis discovered that salt water from the ocean helps clear out mucus that build up in the lungs. Because of this, organizations involved in combating the disease have been campaigning for patients to learn how to "hang 10," a term for a popular surfing maneuver.

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With cystic fibrosis, scarring and the formation of cysts occur within the pancreas. The most serious symptom of the condition is difficulty in breathing due to persistent lung infections. Other symptoms include stunted growth and infertility.

Although the average life span for those with the disease is around 40, many pass away in their teens. Because the condition is genetic, there is no preventive measure parents can take nor is there a cure for it.

Ten years ago, physicians in Australia discovered that patients who surfed had an easier time breathing. Because of this, studies were conducted that resulted in saline treatments for the disease.

The Mauli Ola Foundation was born out of the belief that salt water can unclog the lungs, allowing cystic fibrosis patients to breathe easier. The foundation, whose name means "breath of life" in Hawaiian, partners cystic fibrosis patients with professional surfers.

An American family came to the foundation after three of their three children were diagnosed with the condition. Surprisingly, they had no previous family history of cystic fibrosis.

Three of five children in another American family have cystic fibrosis. The parents said surfing is helping their kids live better and longer.

Their three children afflicted with cystic fibrosis have benefitted the most from their trips to the ocean.

The mother said its helping them breathe better and is also helping them as a family enjoy something together.