Biography

IPF was discovered because I had extreme difficulty breathing after wildfire smoke settled in the area where I lived in 2005. Once it had cleared, the SOB continued which prompted me to get medical attention. Suffered SOB for two more years after the initial complaint to the pulmonologist. Changed doctors. The new doctor ordered the CTScan. The pathologist stated in his report that it looked like “old inactive fibrosis”? I have had SOB upon heavy exertion since my teenage years and wonder if this fibrosis was the cause during all those years. I have survived an additional 13 years with very little progression of the fibrosis. Tried both Esbriet and Ofev and quit due to side effects. Currently taking green tea extract. After a move to a new state, I am on my 4th pulmonologist. Only one visit before COVID pandemic hit. He has 30 years of experience and still seems excited about his work and my case in particular.  I can’t wait to see him again and get a fresh perspective.