After finally feeling like I had the right medications to manage my anxiety and depression, I started Trikafta®, and everything changed. Struck with fatigue, all I wanted to do was stay in bed.
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As a person with cystic fibrosis, I used alcohol and drugs to fit in with my peers and cope with the hardships of having a chronic disease. I still struggle with sobriety, but I have taken control of my health and my life.
Since the loss of my sister to cystic fibrosis, grief has hit me in waves. Sometimes it feels as though I can't breathe. Despite this, I have been able to function and keep going. That is what Claire would have wanted me to do.
Having experienced loss before, I thought I knew how to process grief. But, when I lost my cousin to suicide and my grandmother to the pandemic this past year, I reacted in unexpected ways and learned new lessons about coping with grief.
As the mother of a toddler with cystic fibrosis, I found it hard to deal with the daily grind of treatments, appointments, and insurance claims on top of all other daily responsibilities. After months of suicidal thoughts, I finally reached out for help.
Despite letting negative thoughts get to me when I was younger, I learned to make the most of any situation. This positive mindset has helped me succeed in college, and I want to help pass along what I have learned.
When I feel anxious, I go for a run or do a crafting activity to relieve the stress. I used to think I didn't have time for this, but now I know that I need to make time to take care of my mental health.
My emotions are constantly evolving through this journey with cystic fibrosis. And while I might feel like I am filled with sadness at times, my life is still very full.
As I assume my new role as president and CEO of the CF Foundation, I am humbled by all that this organization has achieved and am determined to continue our work toward the ultimate goal. Here are my thoughts as I take over the reins from my dear friend and colleague.
Annoying though it may have been for me, my mom was determined to raise a daughter who was healthy despite CF. However, we would both soon realize that not every symptom is visible.