It’s been one year since I joined BioNews, the publisher of Pulmonary Fibrosis News, as a columnist. At that point, I was trying to find my way in life with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) amid the COVID-19 pandemic. I never thought I’d have so much to write about.
Coping with a rare disease can be lonely. After I was diagnosed with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) in 2019, my world crumbled and shock set in. I started searching for answers on the internet, looking for any research about my illness, and talking with other patients. It’s a…
“Wow, that is a rare lung disease. I have heard of lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia [LIP], but I have never known or treated anyone with this disease. Your case will be interesting.” That’s what my cardiologist said when I went for my first consultation regarding my hospital stay for symptoms of…
Laughter brings people together. It can lead to positive emotional changes, especially when you’re having a rough day. It can also boost the immune system, which enables our body to fight infections. Laughter can help us feel relaxed and vibrant and make our spirits soar. Chronic illness can trigger…
This is not easy to talk about. I don’t even want to discuss it with my husband. I already feel awkward being intimate while wearing a nasal cannula and don’t want to add another unsexy health issue. My husband and I have always had a strong attraction to each other.
What a rough three weeks my family has been having. I’ve had to put a hold on writing my column because of events outside of my control. Once again, I am angry with this rare illness of mine. It not only puts a hold on my life, but…
Teaching has been a passion of mine since I earned my masters degree in sociology from the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) in 2013. Becoming a college professor gave me a sense of self-worth. I was proud of my accomplishments, especially since I obtained my degree so late in…
My plan for the holidays was to binge-watch all the Rocky movies. I love this character as played by Sylvester Stallone, and I can relate to how much he struggles to find his way through what life has thrown at him. I particularly identify…
Most of us crave intimacy. Not only on a physical level, but more importantly on an emotional, intellectual, experiential, and spiritual level. I am a very emotional person; it’s easy to see in my writing. I wear my heart on my sleeve. My mother always said I was the…
Being my own advocate means having to be resilient, a trait I have come to acquire. The past two weeks have really tested me, and sparked a fierce determination on my part to obtain financial assistance to help offset expenses caused by my illness. I have been researching…
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