Andrea's story

Andrea's Story

Hi, my name is Andrea.  I, as other kids, have hopes, dreams and ambitions.  However, this would not have been possible without Newborn Screening.  Here’s my story.  I am 16 years old and I have phenylketonuria (PKU).  It is a genetic disease that if not caught in time I would have brain damage, I wouldn’t be able to talk, communicate or function.  It is caused by my body not having enough enzymes to break down protein in food.  I have actually met people who did not get screened and had PKU.  It’s really sad to me to see them because that could have been me, but instead I’m just your normal teenager.  I get good grades in school even though PKU at times makes it hard for me, but it could have been much worse.  I have friends and live a pretty normal life because of Newborn Screening.  Yes, insurance does make it hard to afford my medical needs, which isn’t fair, but it’s worth it.  I also play guitar, tennis, and enjoy fishing (but I can’t eat the fish).  It’s sad to think that just one simple test could change my life so drastic and other’s lives around me without a chance to really live.  It’s also sad to me that any parent would be afraid enough of a simple test and their child would have to pay without even being given a chance because of a simple heel poke.

So don’t question it and get your baby screened so you can give your child the future you want it to have.  So please think of me and my story and pass along that Newborn Screening really shouldn’t be a choice.  It’s simple and can change your life in ways you couldn’t imagine.  Look what it did for me.  Thank you for listening to my story and please, say “Yes” to Newborn Screening.  I promise you won’t regret it!!