I am thankful for the relationships I have online with other people with cystic fibrosis. But the flip side of using social media is that I open myself up to the possibility of unkind words or feelings of sadness whenever I log in.
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Cystic fibrosis has been a challenge to me, but I've been able to blossom nevertheless.
In an ableist society, sometimes you just have to ignore comments that make you feel worthless for not working. If I had the chance, here is what I would tell people who judge those with an invisible illness.
The reward for trying to look your best -- even when you are sick -- shouldn't be people questioning whether you really have a serious illness. People with cystic fibrosis and other chronic illnesses need support and kindness, not second guessing.
When I finally broke things off with my ex Pablo, I soon met Frank the tank. Although Frank has been great throughout my process of waiting for a double lung transplant, I think I'm ready to take a step back and breathe on my own.
At 86, Marlene Pryson may be one of the oldest individuals living with cystic fibrosis. During her long life, she has dedicated many years of service to helping CF families as a CF clinic coordinator and family liaison.
Although some people are very open about their cystic fibrosis, I prefer to keep my diagnosis to a small group of family and friends -- and that is OK. There is more than one correct way to live with CF.
Asking for help is not always easy. Asking for help when you have cystic fibrosis is even harder.
Being separated from my family while I was in college helped me expand my circle and create room in my heart for new relationships. My friends became my second family, and they have been there for me as much as any blood relative.
Having been diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby, I grew up thinking I had an early expiration date. Once I started taking Kalydeco®, my health completely changed for the better. For the first time, I had a solid future ahead of me, and I needed to prepare for it.