Those who live with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) can tell you how important the support of friends and family can be in dealing with the disease.
CF affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide).
A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that not only clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections, but also obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.
In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments mean that many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond. This, in spite of the fact that the daily lives of people with CF are complicated with frequent lung infections and problems from the poor ability of the body to digest food.
There is no denying that the extensive daily treatments and frequent hospitalizations make life very difficult for everyone.
Driscoll Children’s Hospital wants to help those whose families are affected in some way by CF. They will host the 2nd Annual Cystic Fibrosis Family Education Day on Saturday, August 4th from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on the first floor of Driscoll Auditorium (3533 S. Alameda Street).
The no-cost gathering will provide education for families of children living with CF from physicians and respected experts in the field. A free breakfast and lunch will also be included.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Medical evidence shows that certain bacteria can be passed between individuals who have CF and can lead to worsening symptoms and speed decline in ling function. To limit the serious risk of cross-infection between people with CF, individuals with CF are discouraged from attending.
Anyone planning to attend should RSVP by calling (361) 694-4464 or emailing yadira.claudio@dchstx.org <mailto:yadira.claudio@dchstx.org> ASAP.
