USQ nursing students are inspired by Peter 'Peebo' Bissell and David 'Dagwood' Bissell who don't let cystic fibrosis keep them from laughing and loving life.

USQ nursing students are inspired by Peter 'Peebo' Bissell and David 'Dagwood' Bissell who don't let cystic fibrosis keep them from laughing and loving life. Contributed

LAUGHING literally helps keep David and Peter Bissell alive.

The modern day Patch Adams twin brothers are renowned around the country for their humorous efforts, but what is even more remarkable than their fame is the fact they are still breathing.

The Bissell Boys, as they are known, were diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at birth and have battled the disability daily, but that has never stopped them from getting the most out of their lives.

"Both Pete and myself were born with cystic fibrosis and we turn 40 this year," David said.

"When we were born, back then the life expectancy was two to three years, and kids wouldn't live through to their teenage years.

"Laughter is our best medicine. We rattle when we walk, that's for sure."

The twins are beloved clowns and yesterday spoke to USQ nursing students about what it will mean for them to care for patients with the life-threatening genetic disorder.

"It's important to listen to what the patient has to say and be guided by the patient," David said.

"The hard thing with cystic fibrosis is a lot of the staff gets to know us over the years and when we do pass away, it's pretty hard for them as well.

"But our motto is live life, love life and laugh."

The facts on cystic fibrosis

"We rattle when we walk" - Peter and David each take up to 60 tablets a day to stay alive

Both Peter and David received a bilateral double lung transplant in 2005

Become a donor - CF patients rely on lung transplants

Laughter is the best medicine - laughing loosens mucus and helps a CF patient clear their lungs

Serious genetic condition - affects about one in every 2500 babies in Australia

Beating life expectancy - many CF patients don't make it past 30

Household names - David and Peter have appeared on Australian Story and other programs

Visit peeboanddagwood.com for more info on the Bissell Boys