Stepping Out of Hiding to Find a Happier Version of Myself
My inspiration for this column came from looking out my window, which was built high up and close to the ceiling. I call it “God’s Window,” because every morning, I can look up to…
Modern Day Mutant
— Ann Reynoso
Ann Reynoso lives in Alvin, Texas, working and volunteering as a patient advocate for those with disabilities and communities that struggle with inequalities in health and social care. She was diagnosed at age 53 on December 2019 with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia and pulmonary fibrosis. Her wonderful support team includes her husband and daughter. She writes both to regain a sense of achievement, post-diagnosis, and to make sure no one feels alone in their journey of navigating rare illness.
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How my medical team helped calm my anxiety before a procedure
I recently underwent a bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage. While I was confident that I was under the care of competent professionals and trusted that the procedure would be conducted efficiently, I experienced a brief moment…
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Finding a Balance Between Traditional Folk Remedies and Western Medicine
Growing up in the Mexican culture, I was introduced to a lot of home remedies to treat everything — coughs, colds, stomachaches, fevers, bug bites, and even “el mal de ojo,” or…
When Feeling Defeated Due to PF, Look for Opening Doors of Opportunity
It’s been awhile since I’ve really felt defeated, but life has a way of reminding us sometimes of how truly vulnerable we are. Dealing with a rare illness like pulmonary fibrosis can complicate…
It’s My Turn to Take On the Role of Caregiver
I never thought I’d take for granted the caregiving I receive from my daughter, at least not on purpose. But that’s exactly what I was doing. I knew I could count on her on…
Celebrating 1 Year of Finding My Path Through Writing
It’s been one year since I joined Bionews, the publisher of Pulmonary Fibrosis News, as a columnist. At that point, I was trying to find my way in life with lymphocytic interstitial…
Despite Our Differences, the Rare Disease Community Is in This Together
Coping with a rare disease can be lonely. After I was diagnosed with lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) in 2019, my world crumbled and shock set in. I started searching for answers on…
Early AFib Diagnosis Is Key to Proper Care
“Wow, that is a rare lung disease. I have heard of lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia [LIP], but I have never known or treated anyone with this disease. Your case will be interesting.” That’s what my…
A Day in the Life: When Laughter Is the Best Medicine
Laughter brings people together. It can lead to positive emotional changes, especially when you’re having a rough day. It can also boost the immune system, which enables our body to fight infections. Laughter…
Menopause and Pulmonary Fibrosis Mark a New Chapter in My Life
This is not easy to talk about. I don’t even want to discuss it with my husband. I already feel awkward being intimate while wearing a nasal cannula and don’t want to add another…
I Have to Hold Back So Much Because of My Illness
What a rough three weeks my family has been having. I’ve had to put a hold on writing my column because of events outside of my control. Once again, I am angry with…
Returning to Work After My Diagnosis
Teaching has been a passion of mine since I earned my masters degree in sociology from the University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL) in 2013. Becoming a college professor gave me a sense of…
Bouncing Back From a Recent Hospitalization Due to Heart Problems
My plan for the holidays was to binge-watch all the Rocky movies. I love this character as played by Sylvester Stallone, and I can relate to how much he struggles…
