Mel's Minions

Mel's Minions Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body.

The page was started January 2015 to keep everyone up to date on Mel, share knowledge about Cystic Fibrosis, and help with our fundraising for The Cystic Fibrosis Institute. Cystic fibrosis affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices. These secreted fluids are normally thin and slippery. But in people with CF, a defective gene causes the secretions to become sticky and thick.

Instead of acting as lubricants, the secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the lungs and pancreas. Although cystic fibrosis is progressive and requires daily care, people with CF are usually able to attend school and work. They often have a better quality of life than people with CF had in previous decades. Improvements in screening and treatments mean that people with CF now may live into their 40s, and some are living into their 50s. For more information on CF, please follow this link. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cystic-fibrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353700

Happy & Healthy 2025 to everyone!!
01/01/2025

Happy & Healthy 2025 to everyone!!

I really hope I did this right!! In the past people have asked for a direct way to donate to Dr. Boas. This QR code shou...
09/21/2024

I really hope I did this right!! In the past people have asked for a direct way to donate to Dr. Boas. This QR code should do it! I know times are tight, but if you have an extra dollar or two, please consider donating to the Cystic Fibrosis Institute. 💜

Hi all! Sorry for not posting much, it's been busy. This summer Mel worked 2 jobs, kept her health in the "Dr. Boas isn'...
09/21/2024

Hi all! Sorry for not posting much, it's been busy. This summer Mel worked 2 jobs, kept her health in the "Dr. Boas isn't panicking" range, and earlier this month started sophomore year of college. Man, she's getting old!
Earlier this week Dr. B hosted an educational dinner for some parents and adult patients. He went through a lot of scientific stuff that often goes over my head, but as usual I took notes in the hopes something would click.
He also discussed donating and trying to raise funds. Since the bowling alley is gone, I turn to you, our loyal followers, to ask what you might like to do. Kids are back in school so sports, bands, and groups are in full fundraising mode. What have we done that you would like us to do again, or what's something new you'd like us to try?
Chances are REALLY good I wouldn't try to rush something before the holidays, but I am open to ideas!!

07/03/2024

Mel's blood test results came back. White blood cells are good (whew!!) and vitamin d level will be addressed the same as always - a supplement daily.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July 🎇 🎇

07/03/2024

We hope your holiday ends with all the parts you start it with. Be safe!!

06/28/2024

For those of you wondering the results of Mel's hospital stay, the results were basically nil. The PICC was pulled a week early - any changes would have occurred within the first week. Now we just monitor her closely. We brought all the leftover ivs and supplies in case someone else can use them.
Today we are back in the office for another blood draw. The last results showed low white blood cell count and low vitamin d, which she takes religiously. Here's to waiting through the weekend and holiday for results! 💜💛

06/13/2024

When we finally get released!! LOL (Mel likes penguins)

06/13/2024

Ok...
We never got Dr. B to record a message. Our bad.

We ARE going home today. Just had to wait for home health to get all her meds assembled.

All this was figured out just in time for one last breathing treatment and iv.

Our goal is to be in the house before 7:30pm Central. With rush hour traffic and the rain we will see how that goes.

06/11/2024

Well, we're still here. :-( Our new hope to leave day is Thursday. They're still adjusting her medication levels. Not sure what else to say other than we'd both like to be home.

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06/10/2024

Big thanks to Bella for visiting, bringing Mr. Sub, watching movies, and playing video games today 💛

06/09/2024

We're spending Mel's birthday relaxing the best we can. One of Mel's older favorite shows is on, she has search-a-word puzzles, and I'm considering a nap LOL

Dr. Boas was in this morning but didn't have time to stay for a video, so hopefully when he comes in Tuesday morning. Mel's medication levels weren't where they needed to be, but her ct came back pretty decent. There is some damage of course, but according to Dr. B., the tech couldn't believe the lungs belong to a cf patient. :-) I always worry about what the damage looks like considering she wasn't diagnosed until 9. Knowing she's still decent is a plus. 💛💜

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Nothing says happy birthday like the floor nurses singing you awake! 💛
06/09/2024

Nothing says happy birthday like the floor nurses singing you awake! 💛

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Oak Forest, IL
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