Most of us receive our medical care from our primary care doctor or a local pulmonologist. However helpful they may be, they don’t know everything about the rare disease that we have. Four years ago, the first pulmonologist I saw told me I had a few months to…
Being diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis is not for the faint of heart. It is a rough road full of fears, losses, and unknowns. It’s difficult getting used to all that comes with this diagnosis, including lots of up and downs, tears, disbelief, and attempts to adjust. Taking good care…
About three months ago, I bought a used treadmill and started exercising at home. I used to go to pulmonary rehab three times a week. As my disease has progressed, going to pulmonary rehab has become too tiring for me. Just getting there and back as well as…
Just like you, I’ve had my share of good experiences with doctors, and frustrating ones, too. I wish I could share some tips with doctors to help me cope with this awful disease. I’ve asked fellow patients I know online for their input, and they had a lot…
Last week, my husband and I celebrated our 40th anniversary. I was so grateful to celebrate this amazing day with this wonderful man! Four years ago, I was told I had a few months to a year to live and I was offered no treatment options. Being given…
I’ve been writing this column for almost two years, and it has been a delight to share with you, get to know you, and learn from your wisdom. I write from my experience as a PF patient and share my struggles as well as some tips I’ve learned…
Hello PF friends! I would so appreciate your input regarding a heartfelt project I’m considering. For about a year I’ve been pondering finishing a book to help patients like me deal with being diagnosed with a terminal illness. I started this book a year ago but set it…
e With summer in full swing, I’ve decided to enjoy the special things about the season. I’m trying to be intentional about relishing the good things, instead of going into automatic mode — just surviving every day. Summer food Boysenberry Cobbler (Photo by Kim Fredrickson) My…
A scary moment I recently had a scare while in my backyard. I was cutting some ivy, an easy task I can do without bending over or digging in the dirt. I had a full tank of oxygen with me, and I was trimming on my back…
About two years ago I had a very touching experience. I had retired from my counseling practice of 30 years. I was part of a group of 10 wonderful therapists who were good friends as well as colleagues. Once a year we went on a retreat to a…
Get regular updates to your inbox.
