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.
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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.
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.
The hope that came with the authorization of two COVID-19 vaccines has been coupled with anxiety and frustration as I wait.
The physical symptoms of cystic fibrosis can be debilitating. But the emotional trauma brought on by hurtful comments, financial burdens, and anguish my loved ones have faced because of my disease has been just as painful.
After years of being in a deep depression, one little revelation from my therapist made all the difference in how I faced the traumas in my life.
I agree with the saying that laughter is the best medicine. I've been taking it for years.
The Patient and Family Experience of Care Survey helps cystic fibrosis care teams start formal quality improvement projects, but it also has helped my team become more sensitive to the voices of our patients.