How much of a powerhouse in the world of rare disease medicine do you have to be to effect change?…
Samuel Kirton
Sam Kirton started his column in November 2021 and writes from his home at Lake Anna, Virginia, where he lives with his wife Susan. His diagnosis at age 59 with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in January 2017 began a journey of awareness and advocacy. Sam was listed for a lung transplant on March 19, 2021 and received a bilateral lung transplant on July 10, 2021. This was quite the change from his career as a special agent for the Office of Special Investigations and as a corporate security executive. Sam plans to share his journey so you, too, can make every breath count. You can follow Sam’s thoughts on LinkedIn.
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Articles by Samuel Kirton
Have you ever experienced a period in your life when nothing seemed to go right? While that may seem an…
July is a month of celebration at our house. Though it begins with the Fourth of July, my personal “Independence…
Adversity is something rare disease patients face on a regular basis. It can take many forms, but it often involves…
What choices do you have when you have idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and lung transplant isn’t an option? I’ve been told by more…
The sound of overhead explosions and bright flashes of light caused by fireworks. The sound of squealing tires followed by…
The calendar of any rare disease patient is a marvel, with its complexity and efficiency. I’ve become both a master…
My name is Sam, and I read a lot. I enjoy reading. I’m not asking for help or seeking an…
Have you ever tried to explain to someone who has never experienced a rare disease how patients can develop lasting…
A pulmonary fibrosis journey is marked by many firsts, especially in relation to medical tests. Prior to my…