Cystic Fibrosis
Christopher was born September 12, 1992 at a local hospital in Montgomery, Alabama. Three months later, thanks to a local physician named Bob Beshear, he was rushed to Children's Hospital in Birmingham with malnutrition and an enlarged liver. Unknown to us, Christopher was suffering from a chronic lung disease known as Cystic Fibrosis which is due to a glue-like substance in the lungs that causes lung problems, gastro problems, and major sinus problems. Dr. Lyrene and Sandy Mann were the first two people we saw. I will never forget asking Sandy "Is he going to die?" Sandy replied calmly, "Yes." We were told shortly afterwards that we would only have Chris in our lives for 17 years. Within the 15 years we've been going to the hospital, his life expectancy has risen to 40 years. What started out to be a tragedy in our lives has become an opportunity to meet the most amazing children as well as a new family. The staff at the hospital has become more than just doctors, X-ray technicians, "Vampires", CAs, cleaning ladies, and nurses. They have become like our second family. Christopher averages about three hospital stays a year which can range anywhere from a week to two weeks stay, as well as countless hospital visits with seven different specialists. Christopher has been a part of the Children's Miracle Network for 15 years. I first involved him when he was an infant. We soon after started doing telethons with WSFA 12 in Montgomery. At the age of four, before we were to do the interview I will never forget him saying "Don't worry, I got this!" We've also become a part of the Mix 103 family by doing radiothons with them. He is a sophomore at Hooper Academy where he is active in sports such as football, basketball, and baseball. Without Children's Hospital I wouldn't have my youngest son. I know it's not much, but if I could do anything it would be just to thank the staff at Children's for giving my baby boy his life back. View Video
