Alex: The Life of a Child

Alex, The Life of a Child

Alex: The Life of a Child is a biography written by Frank Deford about his daughter, Alexandra ("Alex") Deford, who was born with cystic fibrosis. The book was first published in 1983 and provides a poignant account of Alex's life and the challenges faced by her and her family due to her illness.

Background

Frank Deford was a well-known sportswriter and author. His daughter, Alex, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis shortly after her birth. At the time, cystic fibrosis was a relatively unknown and poorly understood disease, with limited treatment options and a grim prognosis. The book details the emotional and physical struggles of Alex and her family as they navigate her illness.

Synopsis

The biography begins with Alex's birth and early diagnosis of cystic fibrosis. It chronicles her day-to-day life, including her medical treatments, hospital visits, and the impact of the disease on her family. Despite her illness, Alex is portrayed as a vibrant and spirited child who brings joy to those around her.

The narrative also delves into the emotional toll on the Deford family, particularly the strain on Frank and his wife, Carol. The book highlights the couple's efforts to provide a normal life for Alex while also advocating for greater awareness and research funding for cystic fibrosis.

Impact

Alex: The Life of a Child brought significant attention to cystic fibrosis and helped raise awareness about the disease. The book's emotional depth and candid portrayal of the Deford family's experiences resonated with readers and contributed to increased support for cystic fibrosis research and advocacy.

Adaptations

In 1986, the book was adapted into a television film of the same name, starring Craig T. Nelson as Frank Deford and Bonnie Bedelia as Carol Deford. The film further amplified the book's impact and brought Alex's story to a wider audience.

Legacy

The legacy of Alex: The Life of a Child endures through its continued influence on cystic fibrosis awareness and advocacy. The book remains a touching tribute to Alex Deford and a testament to the resilience and love of the Deford family.

See also

• Cystic fibrosis
• Frank Deford
• Television film