Dean

At just five days old, Dean was airlifted to Arkansas Children’s Hospital for emergency surgery due to a complication that indicated cystic fibrosis. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis, and his CF journey began.

Now 3, Dean is thriving thanks to a breakthrough medication that’s extended his life expectancy from 25 to over 70 years. He hasn’t had a single hospital stay since starting it.

That care is only possible because Dean has both private insurance and Medicaid. Without it, his treatments would be out of reach.

Through it all, Arkansas Children’s has supported Dean with care that’s both expert and personal. When he turned one in the hospital, the staff threw him a birthday party with cupcakes and balloons—all themed around his favorite show.

Today, Dean is full of life and doing what he loves—camping and playing with trucks! Dean’s resilience is what Team CHA is all about, and we are so excited to have him participate in FAD 2025!