I had never heard of cystic fibrosis until I received my diagnosis — but learning how to navigate my CF prepared me to advocate for my husband’s medical care and helped me grow as an artist.
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A chance meeting at a CF conference 12 years ago gave me one of the most valuable gifts: my CF Mama friend group. Since then, we’ve invested time in our friendship and supported each other through the laughs and the tears.
Throughout my life with cystic fibrosis, I never thought about the prospect that I would outlive my loved ones. Now that I have attended some of their funerals, the thought of my own mortality has caught up with me.
Hospice care helped my daughter, Desirée, through her final days.
I have answered questions from many about what cystic fibrosis is, but the question that I really wanted to address was: why do I believe I have CF?
As an adult with cystic fibrosis, I know I am blessed to be healthy right now. I find joy in spreading awareness of CF and encouraging others to follow their dreams no matter what.
Living with CF means I quickly became familiar with the patient side of the health care field. My experiences in the hospital have motivated me to become the kind of nurse that listens to and advocates for their patients.
The CF community supported me so much during my two double-lung transplants, so I’m eager and excited to give back. One of the ways I got involved was by becoming a mentor, which is how I formed an incredible bond with my friend, Brittani.
As cystic fibrosis damaged my lungs, I did all I could to make it to my university graduation before I underwent lung transplant.
With help and support from my parents, I felt empowered to make my first big decision with my cystic fibrosis care: When to remove my G-tube.