I was recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at age 67. Although I love my CF care team, I think it will be important for them to understand age-related care in addition to CF care — especially as the CF population ages.
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I have had a fortunate life with cystic fibrosis given the fact that I married, had two kids, and a career. However, with increasing — and sometimes bewildering — health issues, I’m beginning to wonder whether it’s my CF or just aging, or something in between.
People like me are living longer — median survival for someone with cystic fibrosis is now 56 thanks to research and care. But as I grow older, my health is getting more complicated and I'll need my care to keep up.
Now that I’m in my 40s and post-lung transplant, I’m beginning to embrace the realities of aging with cystic fibrosis. Despite the gray hairs and deepening wrinkles, I know that I am lucky to be looking forward to mammograms and menopause.
Back in 2015, my genetic sequencing revealed one nonsense mutation. But recently, I learned I have another nonsense mutation that may not have been identified when my genes were first sequenced. As more mutation-dependent therapies are developed, it’s crucial that people with CF have accurate information so they can make informed decisions.
For those of us who can’t take modulators, it can sometimes feel like you’ve been left behind. But I have found hope and motivation by participating in clinical trials.