Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia & Situs Inversus Dextrocardia
Club:
Oakdale Middle School
Club's City, State:
Medford, OR
Date Adopted:
03/13/2026
Service Hours:
Meet Carlo
Read Carlo's Story
Carlo is a sweet and loving 1-year-old little boy who is endearingly referred to as a “daddy’s boy.” He loves music and dancing so much so that his family jokes and says he will be a Salsa dancer one day.
Carlo was born with an extremely rare genetic disease called primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD).
This disease mimics cystic fibrosis by impairing the function of cilia, the tiny hair-like structures lining the respiratory tract, ears, and sinuses.
This condition prevents the effective clearance of mucus and debris, leading to chronic and recurrent infections, inflammation, and potential irreversible organ damage over time.
There is no cure for PCD, but early intervention is crucial. Carlo requires a minimum of 2 nebulizer treatments, along with an airway clearance vest, two times a day.
Carlo visits medical specialists in Portland every 6 months and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future.
Carlo will be adopted as the Sparrow to Oakdale Middle High School. Oakdale students will work hard to earn money for Carlo through sponsored community service.
