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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While you are grinding through a seemingly never-ending cycle of cystic fibrosis treatments, it also can be helpful to engage in self-care activities that bring you happiness. This nurturing routine can help you keep perspective and remind you of why you are undergoing all these treatments in the first place.
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.
In the summer months, some things require special attention for people with cystic fibrosis.
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.