Lois Grimsley

Hayden is 9 years old and was born with the genetic disease Cystic Fibrosis. CF causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs, digestive system, and throughout the body. This mucus traps bacteria, causing persistent infections and eventually a decline in lung function and respiratory failure. It also does not allow fat and nutrition to be absorbed into the body, causing difficulty maintaining a healthy weight and nutritional status. Because of these chronic symptoms, Hayden must take 25 pills, two breathing treatments, and one hour of airway clearance via a vest that shakes his lungs every single day. On top of his daily meds and therapies, he also goes to CF clinic every 3 months so his pulmonologist and team can make sure his health and weight are staying on track. He also gets throat swabs, blood draws, x rays, and takes pulmonary function tests (PFTs) while at clinic. Thank you for being an all star and helping us bring a cure for CF home for Hayden!