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Chronic illness birthdays are complicated!
I’ve never been someone to celebrate my birthday extravagantly throughout the years. I know people who host big celebrations, spend a lot of money, or do something really special for their big day and if it makes them happy, that’s great; however, it just isn’t me. That said, my birthdays have felt different since my diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in 2016 and often result in complicated feelings.
I want to celebrate because life with a chronic illness like IPF is unpredictable, but at the same time, I’m acutely aware that I’m another year older and this disease is progressive. The latter awareness causes me some grief, which I think subconsciously prevents me from celebrating the way I want to. It seems chronic illness birthdays are complicated!
I celebrated a birthday within the last week and enjoyed how I spent it; with close friends in the comfort of my home (and pets!) surrounded by my Christmas tree and that was perfect for me.
How do you celebrate your birthday with IPF? Does it mean more to you, or like me, are you left with complicated feelings about it? I’d love to hear from you!
Char. -
3 Replies
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Hi I understand completely.My birthday is coming up on the 6,and with the holidays here, I’m not in usual happy mood.2Flare ups in 30 days.O2 up to 6 lt.24/7 and heart rate in the 140 + with standing up.Sorry.I’m glad you had a “new normal” birthday.I wish you Christmas blessings and feel better.You’re not alone
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Charlene,
That sounds like the perfect celebration.
I know as my IPF progressed before transplant it became more difficult to do even routine gatherings. I was more comfortable at home and COVID was more prevalent then. Celebrate the way that feels right to you.
Sam…
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Ever since I was diagnosed, I decided to celebrate the heck out of every milestone, including birthdays! May we reach many more positive milestones in our lives!
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