Breakthrough Cystic Fibrosis Treatment Gives Poet New Lease on Life

Dr. Michael Welsh's medical innovation extends life expectancy for CF patients like William O'Neal II.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 11:17am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A translucent, ghostly x-ray image of a human lung, revealing the delicate internal structures in glowing lines against a dark background, conceptually representing the medical complexities of cystic fibrosis.A breakthrough treatment offers new hope for cystic fibrosis patients, revealing the intricate medical challenges they face.Iowa City Today

William O'Neal II, a poet living with cystic fibrosis, was given a new lease on life after receiving a breakthrough treatment developed by Dr. Michael Welsh, a doctor in Iowa City. O'Neal's life expectancy was dramatically extended thanks to Welsh's medical innovation, which has transformed outcomes for many CF patients.

Why it matters

Cystic fibrosis is a devastating genetic disorder that historically had a very poor prognosis, with many patients not living past their 20s. Dr. Welsh's treatment represents a major medical advancement that is dramatically improving and extending the lives of CF patients, giving them newfound hope and opportunity.

The details

O'Neal, a 32-year-old poet, has been living with cystic fibrosis since birth. The disease causes a buildup of thick mucus in the lungs, leading to life-threatening infections and other complications. However, a new treatment developed by Dr. Welsh at the University of Iowa has transformed O'Neal's outlook, allowing him to manage his condition and pursue his creative passions.

  • O'Neal was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth in 1994.
  • Dr. Welsh developed the breakthrough CF treatment in the early 2020s.
  • O'Neal began receiving the new treatment in 2025.

The players

William O'Neal II

A 32-year-old poet living with cystic fibrosis, whose life expectancy has been dramatically extended by a new treatment.

Dr. Michael Welsh

A doctor at the University of Iowa who developed a groundbreaking new treatment for cystic fibrosis that is transforming outcomes for patients.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This treatment has given me a new lease on life. I can be anywhere in the world in this place.”

— William O'Neal II, Poet

What’s next

Researchers are continuing to study the long-term impacts of Dr. Welsh's cystic fibrosis treatment, with the goal of further improving outcomes and quality of life for patients.

The takeaway

Dr. Welsh's medical innovation represents a major breakthrough in the treatment of cystic fibrosis, offering renewed hope and opportunity for patients like William O'Neal II who are living with this devastating disease.