Grateful Patient Inspired to Give Back

Aidan McCabe and his CF care team at UH Rainbow Babies & Children's.

Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when he was just 10 days old, Aidan McCabe has received care from the UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Cystic Fibrosis team his entire life. The LeRoy W. Matthews Cystic Fibrosis Care Center at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s was one of the first Cystic Fibrosis (CF) centers established in the U.S. Today, the Center serves approximately 300 adults and children regionally, including Aidan, who is now thirteen.

Over the years, Aidan has participated in several research studies at UH, thanks in part to his care under Michael Konstan, MD, Vice Chairman, Clinical Research, UH Rainbow Babies and Children's, Austin Ricci Chair in Pediatric Pulmonary Care and Research.

When Aidan contracted COVID-19 last year, he was one of the first pediatric patients enrolled at UH – and one of the first in the world – for an open label clinical trial targeting pediatric and adolescent patients with moderate to severe risk of disease due to underlying medical conditions. Fortunately, the clinical trial was successful, and Aidan’s COVID-19 symptoms quickly resolved.

Inspired to Make a Difference

Inspired by the care he received from UH physicians and staff, including Dr. Konstan, nurse Catherine Pamer, respiratory therapist Patricia Allerton, and dietician Terri Schindler, Aidan partnered with Make-A-Wish Foundation to make a difference for others.

Aidan felt strongly that his wish should help people with food insecurity, particularly those with medical conditions that require proper nutrition to help fight their illness. He was thrilled to present a $5,000 gift to UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s with his CF care team in attendance. The funds will support the Food for Life Markets® program at UH.

An Holistic Approach to Care

Part of a holistic approach to addressing food insecurity and medical conditions that are impacted by nutrition and a healthy diet, the Food for Life Markets® at UH help patients with a referral receive healthy foods at no cost to them. An on-site dietitian provides guidance regarding healthy food choices and preparation, offering education and knowledge that will serve the patient for years to come. Since 2018, UH has opened multiple Food for Life Markets® across the region.

Thank you, Aidan, for your kindness and generosity! Learn how you can support Food for Life Markets® at UH.