Four States Area Cystic Fibrosis Benefit Coon Hunt

Just got back from the bench dog show in Atlanta, and I'm always surprised at the number of Arkansans at these events 30 miles deep into Texas. Dexter Whatley, the ringleader of the Texarkana CF chapter, was on hand to direct the show. The coon hunt begins in a few hours.

Here are a few thoughts to go with the pictures: CF occurs in one of every 3,500 live births. More than 80% of patients are diagnosed by age three. Early detection (through newborn screening, of course!) leads to nutritional and cognitive benefits, and researchers believe that the testing of newborns and this early critical treatment may eventually help seek a cure for this condition. The life expectancy of those with CF is now up to the 30-40 year range -- much higher than it was just 30 years ago.