The FDA has approved the first gene therapy shown to restore hearing in people born with a rare genetic form of deafness. The treatment gives a missing gene to the inner ear, allowing many patients to hear for the first time. Scientists are calling it a historic milestone that could open the door to treatments for broader forms of hearing loss in the future…………..Nearly 20 years after aging out of foster care, an Arizona mother finally reunited with the CPS caseworker who once was her lifeline. It started when the mom shared an old photo on Facebook and asked if anyone recognized her caseworker, and almost immediately the two women were reconnected. The best part – they only lived three miles apart. (Here’s a news report.)……………..And finally……………..
A 20-year-old horse named Troy was caught in a scary situation last month in Illinois when he was swept away by floodwaters. Battling exhaustion and the effects of the freezing water, Troy was suffering from significant hypothermia, but he was eventually rescued after an intense, eight-hour effort involving firefighters, water rescue teams, and a veterinarian. He’s now recovering at home, thanks to some brave, patient folks . . . and a whole lot of teamwork. (Here’s a news report.)