By Deb Kroon
Review Staff Writer
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects the respiratory and digestive systems of the human body. Often CF is mistaken for a cold or an eating disorder. It causes a thick, sticky build up of mucus in the organs. The severity of the symptoms vary from person to person.
CF breaks out when both parents pass an abnormal gene to their child. About 1 in 25 people are carriers of the abnormal gene and usually the carriers don’t have CF or show any symptoms. There is a 25% chance that the child of CF parents will get the disease, a 50% chance that the child will also be a carrier and a 25% chance of a disease free child.
As of now, according to the Mayo Clinic, there is no cure for Cystic Fibrosis, but treatment can ease the symptoms and reduce complications. Managing CF is complex, so there will be a lot of doctor appointments, medications and treatments. Every state in the US now routinely tests newborns for CF. Early diagnosis means treatments can begin immediately.
This is the case for Tasha and Kyler Spykeboer. Their son Breilee was diagnosed with CF when he was two weeks old. Tasha had herself tested and she is a carrier of CF. Kyler wasn’t tested because the test is expensive and insurance would only pay for one test, but since it takes both parents, he knows he is a carrier. The Spykeboers also have a 2 year old son, Coati, who does not have CF.
After this happened to Tasha’s family, her sister Trysten Olson and husband Tyler, while Trysten was pregnant with their first child, decided to be tested. Trysten also tested positive to carrying the CF gene. When Tenly was born, she did not have CF, but Taylor, their second child, who is now 6 months old, did test positive.
“Our families are lucky,” said Trysten, “our kids are super healthy so far. Lots of kids with CF have a really tough time. We are so lucky.”
Tasha and Trysten are combining forces to help raise money for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. On Saturday, March 9th, the sisters will host “Cousins for the Cure” craft and vendor show. This is an event they planned to help support the CF Foundation and for future research that will benefit their children. Tasha designed the logo they are using with their name. “Cousins for the Cure” vendor show will be held at the Adrian High School Gym from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. There will be over 25 vendor and craft booths at the event. Food will be available to purchase. An entry fee of $1 per person will be collected at the door, but you will receive a door prize ticket with your entry fee. All proceeds will go to the CF Foundation.
This is Tasha’s second fundraiser. Last summer, she put on a sand volleyball tournament. This summer, Trysten is planning on hosting two tournaments. The two women are hoping that the turnout for the “Cousins for the Cure” events will be great. “The CF Foundation is the best source we have, where our help will come from,” said Tasha. “That’s why all the money we raise will go directly to the foundation.”
Make plans to take some time on Saturday, March 9th and attend the “Cousins for the Cure” craft and vendor show. You will definitely find nice products for yourself and for someone else, possibly for an Easter basket. Your support is greatly appreciated and will make a big difference to a child with Cystic Fibrosis.
