Columns

Sometimes it is hard to keep going when you have pulmonary fibrosis The basics of living life and traveling are now such a challenge for me … like breathing, walking, being tired, having to bring oxygen and needing help. I recently attended a Writer’s…

I recently had a victory in a fight for oxygen, and wanted to share what I learned through the process. I had to fight for oxygen … pretty basic need, right? Like many of you, I’m on supplemental oxygen 24/7. It’s been two years, and it has been a fight…

Inspired by an article written by a wonderful writer, and talented individual who I’m lucky enough to call a friend, I have decided use this post and take a look back at what my life was like a year ago, before IPF. This feels significant in a few different ways,…

If you’re like me, you may have different reactions to the phrase “advocate for yourself.”  I get it. Your experience, upbringing and background may embrace this message wholeheartedly, or you may shrink back from it either because you were taught not to advocate for yourself, or you simply…

Welcome to my column! As indicated by its title, “Younger than 30: Living with IPF,” I am a 28-year-old female recently diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and trying to adjust to life with a fatal and debilitating disease as a young adult with much on the go. One of the biggest,…

Being diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis is not for the faint of heart It is a rough road full of fears, losses and unknowns. Being a good friend to yourself makes this difficult journey a little easier. Hi, I’m Kim Fredrickson, and it is an honor to write this…