This has been a very “real” year on our journey with cystic fibrosis. Following a successful 2008 fundraising (we surpassed our $10,000 goal-- THANK YOU!) we met a family with a 16-year-old son with CF. That boy, Tony is waiting for a liver transplant and is so positive and strong. His family has become good friends and role models for us. CF is truly a devastating disease.

Last fall, Joey was asked to be the spokes-kid for his hospital’s new license plates. With this honor came additional opportunities to be on the radio, TV and his “first” billboard on the side of I-26 in Charleston. What an amazing year for his spirits! But until this last month, it has been a hard year for him physically.

By summer’s end we had the first of four hospitalizations. Joey’s lung infections had gotten out of control. Despite our best efforts we were back in the hospital the week before Christmas. We strongly believe one of the reasons why he wasn’t able to shake these infections was due to his low weight. After many months of attempts to increase his weight, we agreed to place a feeding tube in his stomach. Only one month post-surgery and we are already seeing gains, changes in clothes and shoes sizes (the last time we bought new clothes was two years ago). As strange as it may sound the best part post-feeding tube was an ear infection. The three days of fever that followed has always meant another week in the hospital. This time, though, he dropped a pound, bounced right back and was playing outside and gaining weight again. Simply put, his body had the reserves to battle the infection.

CF treatments and therapies really, really work. We are seeing science trump disease. We need your assistance and commitment to continue these advances that are protecting Joey and giving Tony additional chances. “Money buys Science and Science buys Life.”

Please give what you can to help find a cure in Joey’s lifetime…

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation provides advances and a chance for 30,000 Americans with CF. That's extra years and improved life for Joey. Our goal is to exceed last year’s total of $10,500 for the 2009 Charleston Great Strides walk on May 2nd. Please join us if you are able or consider attending the walk in your town.

Please donate online (address: http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/CarolineBenton4651 ) or mail checks for “Cystic Fibrosis Foundation” to our address below. Of course, you can always hand us a check. Each donation is 100% tax deductible and CFF consistently ranks as one of the most efficient charitable organizations with 90 cents of each dollar going directly into research and other medical programs. Please send your donations by April 30th.

Thank you for keeping Cystic Fibrosis close to your heart, and our family in your prayers.