Meet Gigi: A Cystic Fibrosis Warrior
A little bit of sass and a whole lot of energy!
Gigi's journey as a preschooler living with cystic fibrosis (CF) is one filled with love, support, and proactive care from her family and medical team.
At three years old, Gigi is a bundle of joy, full of energy and curiosity. Starting preschool in January was a big milestone for her, and her favorite part of the day is riding the bus to school, where she gets to experience new adventures and make friends.
Gigi adores her big sister and looks up to her in every way. She mimics her sister's actions and enjoys their time together, forming a strong bond that fills her days with laughter and companionship.
Like many young children, Gigi delights in imaginative play, particularly with her collection of baby dolls. She loves dressing up, often donning princess dresses that transport her to magical realms where anything is possible.
Gigi's journey with cystic fibrosis began even before she was born. When her older sister was born and diagnosed as a carrier, her parents took proactive steps to understand their genetic risks. Through testing, they discovered that both of them carried the f508del mutation associated with CF. This knowledge guided their decisions, including opting for prenatal testing during Gigi's pregnancy, leading to an early diagnosis.
Receiving Gigi's CF diagnosis was undoubtedly a moment of adjustment for her family. However, guided by their proactive nature and the support of healthcare professionals like Nurse Carla at Sanford CF clinic, they embraced the journey with resilience and determination.
Gigi's early months were marked by challenges, including hospitalizations due to Failure to Thrive, a common issue for children with CF. At just two months old, she required a feeding tube for support, which proved crucial for her growth and development. Despite the initial hurdles, Gigi's resilience shone through, and she pulled out her feeding tube days before her first birthday, signaling her strength and determination even at such a young age.
Though Gigi faces occasional health setbacks, such as minor colds, her overall well-being is a testament to the proactive care and unwavering love of her family and medical team. With each passing day, Gigi continues to inspire those around her with her infectious spirit and boundless courage, reminding everyone that with love and support, anything is possible.
