The top priority in clinical research is protecting the safety of people who participate. Learn more about the numerous layers of review that help keep participants safe.
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I have found that the limits cystic fibrosis imposes on my life are a bit like weather forecasts -- open to unexpected changes. Whether by hard-fought scientific advances, thoughtful (personal) planning, creative thinking or sheer luck, many of the limits of CF now come with beautiful possibilities attached.
Starting at 6 months of age, I began my daily journey battling my chronic illness, cystic fibrosis. And now, at 28, my heart is heavy because one of my nearest and dearest caregivers passed away unexpectedly … my father.
Hollywood often portrays people with serious illnesses as brave, inspirational characters. I don't always feel that way, and sometimes the real "fight" is facing that fact.
There are no easy remedies for the perpetual dance that the parents of a chronically ill child do to deal with the painful and enduring isolation. And personally, I found a sense of hopeless defeat.
Some days, the biggest struggle I have is accepting that I have CF.
Although my lung transplant was the end of one story, it was also the beginning of another, more difficult story.
Dr. John P. Clancy shares new developments in drugs that restore airway surface liquid in the lungs of people with cystic fibrosis, making it easier to clear mucus.
CF demands a parent's time, but childhood lessons taught me that all of my children need my love and attention.
Many people might be put off by the thought of participating in a clinical trial. The increasing life expectancy for CFers like me, however, is a testament to the impact medical research can have on the development of therapies for cystic fibrosis.