Specialist uses threat of social services

I have decided to switch pediatric pulmonology specialists.

A few weeks ago I received a call from a nurse from Fairfax Pulmonology (our specialist) relaying a social services threat from Dr. Osborn.

Being threatened by Valentino’s specialist doesn’t seem like a healthy functioning patient/doctor relationship.

Because I had canceled and rescheduled two of Valentino’s visits, Dr. Osborn wanted [...]

Mother's intuition vs. medical system

Navigating the western medical model while also listening to my own intuition regarding Val’s health is a trying task.

I have been very hesitant to give Val the vaccinations at the pace the pediatrician and specialist would like. I have him started on vaccinations but am behind on the entire list of “required” vaccinations.

Because of my [...]

Pulmonologist update: lung status May 2010

Tuesday, May 25th we had our routine pulmonologist appointment. Val is fighting a cold or flu and perhaps a lung infection? The nurse did a throat swap/throat culture and we are awaiting the results. In the meantime his new medication routine is as follows:

nasal spray (1 in each nostril daily)- to handle the constant runny [...]

Passionfruit and Papaya- called "fruit of the angels"

Passionfruit:

The juice of passionfruit reduces cancer cell growth (research underway on this)

Contains phenolic acids and flavonoids known to be anti-microbial (key for CFers)

High in carbohydrates and simple sugars (great for weight gain for CFers)

Full of Vitamin C, A, & Potassium

Seeds of fruit are vital source of fiber

Studies have found that passion fruit extract helped provide [...]

hola from Costa Rica- breathing easy

Cystic Fibrosis is a disease that is caused by a defect in a gene that controls the amount of salt and water that line the airways of the lungs. Without sufficient lubrication, mucus builds up and blocks the airways, providing a fertile home for bacteria.

CF patients who surf, say they feel better and can breathe [...]

regulating digestion with papaya and passionfruit juice

We are in Costa Rica and Valentino’s digestive health is exceptional. I have not had to give Valentino his Creon enzymes and Valentino has two regular bowl movements at the same time daily.

When Val was originally diagnosed with CF, he was clearly a kid that would have severe digestive issues. We’ve already had several scary [...]

Crazy for Coconut Oil

Our latest treatment method with Valentino is coconut oil, coconut oil and more coconut oil.

Coconut oil is said to benefit the lung function and help with weight gain and digestive issues. I’m not sure yet how coconut oil can benefit lung function. I have read some information that says it is ant-viral and anti-fungal. So [...]

For parents of CFers: Tips for nebulizing a 10mo. old

When we first started nebulizer treatments 2 weeks ago, I was introduced to the new regimine by a puppy dog eyed specialist who used his quietest close talking voice to tell me he wasn’t sure how I would make it through the treatment regimine without some help. Perhaps he said that to turn me on [...]

Changed therapy schedule-nebulizer 3x daily

Today is our 2 week mark for albuterol treatments 4x daily with the nebulizer. Since Val is doing so well, we have been moved down to albuterol 3x daily and chest PT as needed (when we hear any rattling, coughing, or Val trying to clear his lungs).

At this point, Val will hold the nebulizer on [...]

Seeing the difference- pre vs. post albuterol treatments

wheezing, coughing, swollen eyes, low appetite

bright eyes, chubby cheeks, breathing clear

Many people bemoan how “time consuming” CF therapies are. It is so worth carving out the time & keeping up with therapy in exchange for free breathing. Valentino is cruising around and is full of energy now that he’s breathing clear. I’m thrilled [...]