Biography

Hi, my name is Patti Bramson.  My journey with pulmonary fibrosis begins around 1996 when my mom was diagnosed with the disease at the age of 65.  And even though I’m a nurse, I knew nothing of the disease or what was in store for us.  We found out early on that there was nothing they could do besides monitor her condition, medicate with Prednisone and provide oxygen….   My mom died from Pulmonary Fibrosis in March 2001 at the age of 69 after a five year battle with the disease.  Ten to twelve years later my mom’s sister (my aunt) was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis.  After learning of my aunt’s diagnosis I decided in June of 2015 at the age of 57 to have a pulmonary work up done so I would have baseline information and images should they be needed in the future.  Unfortunately for me, I was diagnosed that day with ILD (later identified as PF).  I tried Ofev for a year, but the side effects were difficult (vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite) and I made the decision to stop taking it.  By February of 2020 I was on oxygen most of the time and knew I would no longer be able to perform my duties as a school nurse… administrating CPR, lifting a child, pushing a wheelchair, even walking to the other side of the school had become too difficult. In February 2020, I went out on family leave, but once schools shut down due to Covid I was able to work remotely and complete the school year.  My husband, my daughters and I had already decided to pursue a lung transplant. I was listed on December 15, 2020 and transplanted on February 9, 2021 after two “dry runs”.  I am 16 months post op and doing really well.  I know this isn’t an option for everyone and I also know not everyone wants a transplant but for those who are interested I am more than willing to share my experience.  Feel free to reach out!