What Does a Chronically Ill Person Do All Day?

Many people with chronic diseases have what is called an “invisible illness,” meaning that although they are very sick, they don’t have visible signs of illness so many people assume that they’re not really sick at all. Six remarkable things to know about people living with a chronic illness.  This is a…

Over the last two-plus years I have become an unwilling expert on the ins and outs of supplemental oxygen. When I started using supplemental oxygen I knew next to nothing and found it very hard to get the help and information I needed. I’ve learned a lot and…

Many people who suffer from chronic illnesses also suffer from depression. Depression isn’t something that should be overlooked; it should be brought to your doctor’s attention so that it can be treated. But how do you spot depression?  With help from prevention.com, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common physical signs…

Obligations and what you “should” do as a patient living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) can be all-consuming. I have learned a lot about myself this week after talking to friends and colleagues. One of the things I must let go of throughout this journey is this idea…

When 78-year-old Bill Vicks was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2011, doctors gave him three years to live according to an article in capecodtimes.com. The super-fit septuagenarian did what he does best—dons his sneakers and goes out for a run. MORE: How to live for the moment with…

When Maureen McDonald’s father passed away from pulmonary fibrosis, she wanted to do something to celebrate his life and raise awareness of the chronic lung disease. She decided to join the annual American Lung Association Greater Chicago Chapter’s “Fight for Air Climb.” MORE: Animated film explains symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis.

I had an experience last night in the emergency room that has left me thinking a lot. So I decided to turn my thoughts into a column — and I am curious to hear how those of you also living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) feel about patient…