William O’Connell’s miracle turnaround gives hope to WA families battling cystic fibrosis this 65 Roses Day

A rose bought today could keep the doctor away for hundreds of West Australian children and families, just like William O’Connoll.

At just two years old, William endured three grueling hospital stays, including multiple bronchoscopies and five rounds of general anesthesia.

But every day before his afternoon nap, he sits patiently with his mother, Ash O’Connoll, for a grueling but vital ritual to clear his lungs.

“I give him percussion physiotherapy on three areas of his chest for about 15 minutes and he falls asleep,” Ash said. “This is where I hit his chest, physically trying to move the mucus.”

William was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis shortly after his birth, thrusting his family into a world of constant medical surveillance.

The rare recessive genetic condition affects every organ in the body, especially the lungs, causing a buildup of thick, sticky mucus that leads to permanent damage and, in severe cases, the need for a lung transplant.

However, a medical breakthrough in August last year completely changed William’s quality of life.

After being prescribed the state-of-the-art modulator drug Trikafta, his health improved almost immediately.

“Last year we were in and out of hospital in the winter, taking antibiotics intermittently, William was sick for about three months,” Ash said.

“We were admitted to hospital in July; we were in Broome and had to get on a plane to be admitted for two weeks for antibiotics.

“After that we started Trikafta and since then – starting in August last year – he has only had two doses of oral antibiotics in nine months and has not been admitted to any hospital. He is happy, healthy and growing.”

More than 400 WA children and adults are living with cystic fibrosis, just like young William.

Lisa Bayakly, CEO of Cystic Fibrosis WA, said decades of research had finally delivered “truly life-changing” treatments.

“Five years ago only a few Western Australians had compassionate access to new age treatments. Now nearly 80 per cent of our community benefits from them,” Ms Bayakly said. “The landscape is changing, and it’s incredibly positive.”

Ms. Bayakly said that although the outlook has never been better, patients are still juggling demanding health care regimens as well as complex complications that arise, such as cystic fibrosis-related diabetes.

“There is more to do and as life expectancy increases we must adapt our services to these changing needs,” he said.

On Friday you can support these families with Cystic Fibrosis through WA’s annual 65 Roses Day.

The event has come a long way since its inception 18 years ago when just 2,000 roses were sold.

Last year West Australians bought a staggering 26,000 flowers and organizers aim to sell 28,000 this Friday.

“Funds raised through 65 Rose Days allow us to offer practical resources and personalized advice and care to support people through their CF journey and their changing needs as they age,” Ms Bayakly said.

“Every rose purchased represents hope. When you support 65 Roses Day, you help people with cystic fibrosis live their lives with this complex disease – whether that’s accessing treatment, planning for their future or simply knowing they’re not alone. Together, Western Australians can help our CF community continue to thrive.”

Visit the official Day of 65 Roses to buy a bouquet, posy or virtual roses or find a stall near you. website.