The Zucchero Family Gives Back After Their Son, Joseph, Gets Leading Cystic Fibrosis Care at Miller Children’s

The Zuccheros’ found out their son, Joseph, had Cystic Fibrosis after newborn testing. While Cystic Fibrosis is typically found in children where both parents have the dominant Cystic Fibrosis gene, Joseph, didn’t have the typical CF case. He had one of the most common genes for CF but he also had a rare mutation that could have presented as a multitude of non-life threatening complications. After thorough evaluation from the specialists at Miller Children’s CF was confirmed.

At 10 months old, Joseph (now 3 years old), was diagnosed with a bacterial infection, called Pseudomonas, which causes inflammation and infection within the lungs and required Joseph to be hospitalized for two weeks. Pseudomonas is very common in children with Cystic Fibrosis; however it doesn’t usually occur until they’re school-aged. Joseph had to be watched very closely during treatment since he got the infection so young. However, Joseph was able to beat the infection. He still visits the Cystic Fibrosis Center every 3 months to help maintain and control his Cystic Fibrosis.

Today, Joseph has to do 30 minute breathing treatments twice a day, but he doesn’t let that slow him down. His parents keep the house extremely clean and take extra preventative measures to ensure that he doesn’t get sick. They are very aware of his schedule and make sure that he gets the treatments he needs but still lives an active life like all other 3 year olds. He plays outdoors every day and he does swim lessons twice a week. Most recently, Joseph was able to do four Olympic size pool laps without stopping.

It was because of the specialized care and the watchful eye of Miller Children’s that made the Zucchero family feel the need to give back. Joseph’s parents learned about the Young Professionals Association and knew they wanted to be involved. The Young Professionals Association is a fundraising group perfect for parents with careers and are considered the “new generation of philanthropists.”

“We are very lucky to be so close to a full-service, children’s hospital, like Miller Children’s,” says Greg Zucchero, Joseph’s dad and member of the Young Professionals Association. “The doctors and nurses take so much time with each patient and really know how to talk to kids. Joseph is already aware of hand washing and is learning the importance of being in a clean environment. My wife and I want to do everything we can to give back to the hospital and team that care for our son.”