- This topic has 1 reply, 1 voice, and was last updated 1 month, 3 weeks ago by .
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
Rand O’Brien began feeling short of breath one day when he reached his third-floor office. He was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis four weeks later by his pulmonologist. A second confirmation of the diagnosis came six months later. He was urged to get “on the list” for a lung transplant.
Initially he said yes, yet, having been a psychotherapist for 45 years, Rand was used to dealing with the possibilities of people’s deaths on the daily. He wondered “Just because we can, should we?” during one of his daily walks in the woods with his dog, Ruby.
For Rand, death is a part of life, something not to fear, but rather to accept. He also learnt that the life expectancy for a 73-year-old after transplant was one to two years. At age 72, he had his answer.
Deciding against a transplant has freed Randy to his own life. He feels lighter. He is looking forward to the life he has with little anxiety, and knowing “what is going to happen, it’s just gonna happen.”
Wow, Rand, your story – and wisdom – is truly inspiring.
I also chose not to “get on the list”. I am not frightened of dying. I am at peace with the idea and I am working towards making the rest of it the best I can. I’ve lived with this since 2008 and it has progressed over the years. I’ve lived a fantastic life and I am ready for more.
Namaste,
GratefulDeb
Pulmonary Fibrosis News Today 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.
3 W Garden St
Suite 700
Pensacola, FL 32502
Website: bionews.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-800-936-1363
This site 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.