I have a “YOLO” tattoo. Not that I need to be reminded that “you only live once,” but when I see it, I am reminded of soaking up the present, of enjoying every moment, right now. YOLO is about living life to the fullest. When you live with cystic fibrosis, you learn a lot about trying to live life to the fullest. You also learn that living with CF means planning.
From a young age, you plan around breathing treatments and pills. As you experience other common issues associated with CF -- adding IV antibiotics, G-tube feedings, and hospitalizations -- planning becomes even more crucial (at least it was for me)! By the time I was in college, planning meant ensuring I had enough oxygen tanks to get to both class and social activities.
Planning helped me feel in control and accomplish my goals -- to go to grad school, pursue a career, travel, and enjoy hobbies that are personally rewarding. When I was in my 20s, I wasn't sure what my future would be like, but am so glad I began putting funds in an IRA and purchased my life insurance through my employer.
What I recognize now that I am older -- 44 years old and seven years post-lung transplants (yep, two!) -- is that planning is a tool I still use. I think we sometimes believe we become pros at managing our CF and don't need to plan. In many ways, that may be true. But much like I turn to CF clinic (and now my transplant team) for plans to support my health when I am doing well, I recognize that planning remains essential in all parts of my life.
That's why I was so pleased to be asked to review "Life and Estate Planning When You or Someone You Love Has Cystic Fibrosis," a new resource from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. It helps those living with CF and their loved ones create the right plan and think through important issues -- explaining how to easily assemble the necessary papers, people, and financial resources so you and your loved ones are prepared.
As 2018 is just getting underway, I think it's the perfect time to get organized and check this resource out -- I'm so glad I did. I hope you find the Life Planning publication helpful.