We all leave a legacy, so be sure to shape yours with intention

When your time here on Earth is done, what will your legacy be? We all leave one behind, intentionally or unintentionally. What do you want to be remembered for?

When I was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in January 2017, I’d already retired once from a successful career as a special agent for the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. I’d transitioned to the private sector, rising from program management to senior vice president of a business unit. As important as my professional accomplishments were, they were overshadowed by IPF.

Every month I look up upcoming celebrations and observances. I learned that August is often recognized as “What Will Be Your Legacy?” Month, which made me pause. Will I be remembered in the way I hope to be?

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Shaping your legacy

IPF, like any chronic, progressive, and incurable disease, causes many to ponder their legacy sooner than they anticipated. I recall that at the time of my diagnosis, I was told to “get my affairs in order.” Because of my chosen profession, I’d already taken those steps, but my wife, Susan, and I revisited them, given how IPF changed many of our plans.

Creating a will or trust is important, as such documents allow you to establish your wishes and priorities before your passing. Perhaps philanthropy is important to you in establishing your legacy. Not every person can build a new hospital wing, but contributing to a cause in a way that’s meaningful to you is also philanthropy.

Taking those actions is important, but what about on a more personal level? I’m living proof of my donor’s legacy. The decision to be an organ donor doesn’t only involve giving the gift of life to someone else. My double-lung transplant in July 2021 extended my life, and I also accepted some responsibility for my donor’s legacy. Without reservation, I will honor it.

Here at Pulmonary Fibrosis News, the late Kim Fredrickson wrote “Just Breathe … Compassionate Help for the PF Journey.” Fredrickson passed away in 2019, and her columns are archived on this site. They’re part of her legacy; even today, readers comment on her work.

I read Fredrickson’s column regularly and followed her on social media. I connected with her writing and messaging during my IPF journey. I want part of my legacy to mirror hers, in the sense that my columns will continue to be a resource.

I spend time mentoring new patients and caregivers, often joined by Susan. We share our experiences with IPF; we don’t provide medical advice. Our primary objective is to help those new to this disease understand that they’re not alone. Whether we’re introducing them to a support group or helping them find reliable sources of information, we’re contributing to our legacy.

I’ve also created a virtual support group that meets monthly. We don’t have guest speakers or provide training. It’s simply an opportunity for patients and caregivers to share what’s on their mind with others on a similar journey.

I never aspired to be the old man screaming, “Get off my lawn!” Rather, I want the examples I’ve shared here to be a part of my legacy. We all have talents and gifts that will contribute to our memory. Will you share with me in the comments what yours are? Shaping our legacy is one way we can make every breath count.

Note: Pulmonary Fibrosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Fibrosis News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary fibrosis.