Columns

Following a diagnosis of a life-threatening illness like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), days filled with happiness and gratitude can rare. After my own IPF diagnosis in early 2016, I had many days of confusion, anger, and fear of what my life as a young adult would look…

Following my idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) diagnosis in early 2016, I was told that the doctors couldn’t predict how fast or slow my disease would progress. Since it was so “rare” that I had IPF before my 30th birthday, my medical teams were pretty transparent about not…

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…

I am currently attending a professional development conference for work that is inspiring, enriching, and exhausting! Since my diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in early 2016, it’s no secret that I no longer have the stamina to do all the things I once could. This includes…

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…

It is natural for people to experience highs and lows throughout their lives. Significant highs may include milestone events such as marriage, a baby’s birth, or retirement. The death of a loved one, loss of a job, or a relationship breakdown are some examples of the lows we…

It is human nature to try and relate to one another, especially in times of difficulty. So, when a patient living with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is having a tough time, it is natural for others to try and relate to our experience. Despite knowing that others intend to…

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…

Since my 2016 IPF diagnosis, so much has changed for me. I can no longer participate in the sports I once enjoyed or go for a run to channel my energy or frustrations with the day. I can no longer maintain the social schedule I was so fond…

This is an ongoing series. Read the May 2018 entry here. Here it is: my gratitude miniseries column for June 2018. This means that we’re halfway through the year and, overall, I’d say it has been a better one for me, compared to the past few years. That isn’t…