Update on Dean
On the health front Dean is staying strong although he is still fighting a lingering cough since the beginning of this year, causing his lung function to drop more than ever. His cultures remain clear and he doesn't show significant signs of a pulmonary exacerbation so we continue to watch and do everything we can to clear his cough. The gut is tricky with CF and since December Dean has been fighting increased stomach pain. He doesn't let it stop him during the day and fights through the pain but it affects him mostly at night as he tries to relax. On the positive side, a second generation drug was approved for those 12+ with Dean's mutation and is currently in the later trial stages for ages 6+. There is a real possibility that within a year we will have him on his first disease-altering medicine. This is just amazing and we truly have God to thank along with you - our friends, family and supporters - for sticking with us in this fight and continuing on for the 8th year of fundraising because one day, we just know it, we will hear Dean say "I used to have CF."
Dean turned 8 this past March and every single year is a huge milestone when you have a disease that is life-limiting. He still does not understand what the average life expectancy of 41 means and we pray he never will. Because of other commitments, we will not be present at the South Suburban Great Strides Walk this year, however as we are committed to taking every opportunity to find a cure, we are virtually raising money and will be participating in the walk that our local middle school has hosted for the past 12 years. If you would like to make your annual donation, please donate here. (157c: If your child is at Hickory Creek, please donate to their advisory class via this link - the class that raises the most money for the CFF will get a pizza party from Aurelio's of Mokena).
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