A Brother’s Gift to Stay Strong Against Infections

Spring is here! The snow is slowing down and melting away, and soon enough, people will be shedding their winter coats and spending more time outside. People are gearing up for their favorite springtime activities, from playing in the sunshine to splashing in puddles.

But what if you weren’t able to take part in those springtime essentials? For kids with Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) like David, these activities can pose a serious health threat.

CGD is a disease that affects the immune system; it doesn’t work exactly as a healthy one should. A person with CGD can fight off a virus like the common cold, but infections caused by bacteria and fungi typically cannot be stopped. Bacteria and fungi can be found everywhere including the woodchips in a playground, puddles, and even the dander on your pet.

When your body finds these infections, it sends immune cells to fight it off. When those cells don’t work, it sends more cells to join the fight. An immune system impacted by CGD will keep sending these cells, as it is unable to fight off bacteria and fungal infections. Too many of these cells can cause a build-up called a granuloma which can cause pain and other issues in the intestine.

A healthy immune system starts in the bone marrow, so a bone marrow transplant can often cure CGD. Luckily for David, his brother was a perfect match! Icing Smiles was there to help the brothers celebrate the one year anniversary of this life-saving gift. The boys enjoyed the cake in matching outfits and matching smiles. It was the perfect way to mark the milestone year!

With smiles + cake,

Megan Glynn

Icing Smiles Blog Writer