After decades of identifying myself as Monique, “the girl with cystic fibrosis,” I didn’t know who I was anymore after Trikafta changed my health for the better.
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I didn’t realize how important my cystic fibrosis care team was — or how they had my back — until I stayed in a hospital where the staff had little knowledge of the needs of people with cystic fibrosis.
I was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer. After one year, I’m still fighting a tiring battle with it and cystic fibrosis, but I won’t quit.
I was not emotionally prepared the first time I saw my daughter in her vest. But now, I am thankful to have this device as a part of our daily routine to keep her lungs healthy.
I asked the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Dr. Whitney Brown about how cystic fibrosis care might change as the CF population grows, lives longer.
After opening up a time capsule that I put together when I was 7 years old, I decided to write my childhood self a letter, explaining how great her life is when she is 30.
During COVID, it became apparent who in our lives supported the decisions we made for my wife’s health.
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?
My friendship with Judy, who had cystic fibrosis, helped me see how I could accomplish my career goals despite my own chronic illness. Unfortunately, she died six years ago, but her inspiration lives on, and I know she would be proud of me.
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.