Cystic fibrosis (CF) was long considered a grave pediatric lung disease. Because of today’s improved treatments, CF patients can reach adulthood.
More than 70 percent of the CF patients at Hadassah hospitals are adults. Still, becoming a grandfather with this serious disease is unusual.
At Hadassah Hospital Mount Scopus, Dr. Malena Cohen-Cymberknoh, head of the Cystic Fibrosis Center, threw a party for her oldest patient, accountant Ami Kolombus, who turned 80.
"This is a celebration of the advances we've made in treating cystic fibrosis, including the use of CFTR modulator therapies that target the underlying cause of the disease,” said Dr. Cohen-Cymberknoh. “But it's most of all a celebration for Ami Kolombus, whose optimism and diligence in following protocols have made him a partner in successful treatment.”
The party drew staff members, friends, family and fellow patients, crowding the conference center in the Elie Douer and Family Center for Pediatrics Genetic and Chronic Disease at Hadassah Mount Scopus.
"I promise to bring fewer guests when I turn 90," said Kolombus, known for his ready sense of humor.
