I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis...
I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. I was already living with lupas, sjogren syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. My doctor seems to think a medication induced my lung conditions but some say it was due to my auto immune conditions. At the time, my four children were between 6 and 1, they motivated me. I have support from my husband, but help from my family is limited as they live far away.
It was very difficult as my body was changing. I was in pain and discomfort a lot alongside high medication where the side effects were horrible. I dealt with this by taking each day as it came and remained positive and hoping there was some light in the tunnel.
I take each day slowly, I don't work or socialise, I was 28 then and now I am 37. I try not to exert myself, I have 3 major lung conditions such has, lung fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension and pulmonary embolism plus with my autoimmune conditions. I also recently been diagnosed with Nephritis lupas which I am having chemotherapy drug called cyclophosphamide to treat this.
I do lung exercises by sitting down, by moving my chest and take deep breaths and try to eat healthy each day and I don't stress anymore. My children are now between 9 and 15, and they still motivate me, as they are older they help me a lot.
What has helped you the most since being diagnosed at a young age?
My children, me being a mum and not being negative. I do things that make me happy and I stay focussed on that. I don't let negative thoughts come into my mind regardless of how many conditions I have been diagnosed with. I am still thankful I am here with my children. I lost my job due to being told I have severe disability which will affect me as I get older. Life isn't the same any more but I have to take it easy.
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