It was five years ago this month that COVID-19 was beginning to consume the headlines. Around the world, those headlines provided an early view of what a pandemic might look like here in the U.S. In fact, five years ago school systems here began shutting down because of the threat.
Do you ever have one of those days? You know the kind: Nothing seems to go your way and the day ends with a huge sigh. When I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, I learned that not every day would be sunshine and roses. Last Wednesday was a…
Fraternal organizations have long been a part of colleges and universities. It’s not uncommon to find an area around campus labeled as Greek Row. These organizations allow like-minded individuals to join together, taking hold even beyond college campuses. When I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in…
Here in the U.S., there is an effort underway to reduce the size of the government. You may not know that, in addition to writing this column, I’m also a senior moderator for the Pulmonary Fibrosis News Forums. I recently started a discussion about the government downsizing and asked:…
Winter storm warning. Those three simple words never bothered me much until I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Afterward, those words defeated me. They were an indication of things I could no longer do. Snow, especially deep snow, was too much for me. That all came back…
Living with a rare lung disease such as pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a daily battle that requires strength and perseverance. Many individuals, me included, face this journey with courage, often in the shadows of more commonly known illnesses. Preparing for a lung transplant is undeniably tough as well,…
Have you seen the T-shirt or sign that reads “Keep Calm and Carry On” (KCCO)? You might be surprised to learn the story behind this phrase. Created in 1939, it was part of a three-poster series intended to boost morale during World War II. Ironically, the Keep Calm…
Exercise is important for people with chronic illness. But as someone living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), a disease characterized by progressive scarring of the lungs and difficulty breathing, I know working out is easier said than done. I’ve also found some strategies that make it easier for me.
We’re not all the same. When I share details about my journey with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), I don’t want to give the impression that I’m setting a standard. My goal in writing this column is to share my experiences, which may or may not be similar to others.
Grief is a universally understood emotion. How that emotion is individually expressed is unique. When I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), I was 59 years old. I’d experienced loss by then, both family and friends. I cannot bundle grief. In my own unique style, I grieve…
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