Re: How PF has improved my life

[Guest guest]

I appreciate each day more. I appreciate my husband more. I do not run around

half crazy because of some schedule I didn't make and can't keep up with. I do

not mind sitting at red lights or standing in line to purchase something.

Because I can stand in line and drive myself around and work. I have learned to

say NO. I don't feel guilty about not doing something or going somewhere when

I just don't feel like it. I don't say Oh I'm fine when I'm clearly not.

Good question Bruce. You get points for asking it.

S, Lubbock, TX

NSIP w/PF 12/2006 et al

>

> Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

>

[Guest guest]

I just read what you wrote and think of those things as pretty

significant life altering positives. Now I know the negatives of your

conditions. But I also see you as a happy person enjoying their life.

Reminds me I haven't emailed your insanely cool friend recently.

> >

> > Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and

subsequent

> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained.

I'm

> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's

important to

> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill

among

> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what

have

> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I just read what you wrote and think of those things as pretty

significant life altering positives. Now I know the negatives of your

conditions. But I also see you as a happy person enjoying their life.

Reminds me I haven't emailed your insanely cool friend recently.

> >

> > Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and

subsequent

> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained.

I'm

> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's

important to

> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill

among

> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what

have

> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I have given myself permission to think of me first instead of being at the end of a long list of others who "need me."

I have given myself permission to say "NO", I can't do that anymore....like babysitting, even tho' I adore my little great-grandkids.

I don't feel guilty anymore if I wear nice pjs all day AND no bra! Comfort makes a difference in the day...

I have learned to accept what I can't change and I forced myself to go out with the O2. I hated it at first and now it doesn't bother me. Now I'm grateful I have the O2 when I need it.

My life in general is so much calmer. I'm not driven to do this do that anymore.

I've made peace with my disease and I try to be helpful to others on the board.

My life is absolutely different for sure but when I stopped "fighting" what I cannot change I found the peace I've looked for...even before dx. It is what it is.

MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

How PF has improved my life

Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

I have given myself permission to think of me first instead of being at the end of a long list of others who "need me."

I have given myself permission to say "NO", I can't do that anymore....like babysitting, even tho' I adore my little great-grandkids.

I don't feel guilty anymore if I wear nice pjs all day AND no bra! Comfort makes a difference in the day...

I have learned to accept what I can't change and I forced myself to go out with the O2. I hated it at first and now it doesn't bother me. Now I'm grateful I have the O2 when I need it.

My life in general is so much calmer. I'm not driven to do this do that anymore.

I've made peace with my disease and I try to be helpful to others on the board.

My life is absolutely different for sure but when I stopped "fighting" what I cannot change I found the peace I've looked for...even before dx. It is what it is.

MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

How PF has improved my life

Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

Since I was dx nearly five years ago, I have done a few things.

1. I reached the age of 80. To my surprise, it was a kind of freedom, to be wholely myself without concern for what others may think or do.

2. I learned that family - my children, my grandchildren, my great grandchildren hold me in considerable esteem. To have a four year old call you on the phone and sing happy birthday to you in a sweet voice

is like hearing angels.

3. I learned that my circle of friends was larger and more loving and concerned than I ever imagined, and

that they spanned ages from 6 to 90 .

4. I learned that PF is just another element in my life, a thought that I have incorporated but yet

respect, and that my life goes on very much like it did before, but with the annoyance of a drippy

five year old's nose, and an aggravting cough. No one but me pays these things any attention.

5. I learned that I now live my life with a heightened sensitivty to things I used to take for granted:

a magnificant surnise, a flock of ravens in my yard, a mama deer and her kid in the woods, a moose dancing across the highway before I get too close to cause an accident, the neighbor's cat chasing

a squirrel, only to lose it when it races up a tree trunk.

6. I learned that I love life and that with the right attitude life loves me, even with the PF.

7. I learned that I want to make it to 100, and that I have the will and the means to do so if I coddle the devil in my lungs and work to keep him still.

8. Most of all, I learned to love this great Air Family which has given me more love than I deserve and

taught me more about life than I thought there was to know.

Thank you - all of you - I love you.

Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine

To: Breathe-Support Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:40:20 PMSubject: How PF has improved my life

Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

ps

i have met lots of wonderful people on line -- wish they lived closer so we could get together

Pink Joyce IPF 3/06 Pennsylvania

Donate Life Listed 1/09

www.transplantfund.org---

Subject: Re: How PF has improved my lifeTo: Breathe-Support Date: Friday, March 27, 2009, 2:26 PM

I have given myself permission to think of me first instead of being at the end of a long list of others who "need me."

I have given myself permission to say "NO", I can't do that anymore....like babysitting, even tho' I adore my little great-grandkids.

I don't feel guilty anymore if I wear nice pjs all day AND no bra! Comfort makes a difference in the day...

I have learned to accept what I can't change and I forced myself to go out with the O2. I hated it at first and now it doesn't bother me. Now I'm grateful I have the O2 when I need it.

My life in general is so much calmer. I'm not driven to do this do that anymore.

I've made peace with my disease and I try to be helpful to others on the board.

My life is absolutely different for sure but when I stopped "fighting" what I cannot change I found the peace I've looked for...even before dx. It is what it is.

MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

How PF has improved my life

Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

So beautifully said, Jack. You brought tears to my eyes. This group wouldn't be the same without you. Love you, too!! CaroASTHMA 1976,OSTEOARTHRITIS 2002, COPD 02/06, IPF 08/07, UIP 01/08, RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS 03/08 SJOGREN SYNDROME 07/08 POLYMYOSITIS/DERMATOMYOSITIS 03/09 CANCER OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN 03/09Mississippi

To: Breathe-Support Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 5:02:49 PMSubject: Re: How PF has improved my life

Since I was dx nearly five years ago, I have done a few things.

1. I reached the age of 80. To my surprise, it was a kind of freedom, to be wholely myself without concern for what others may think or do.

2. I learned that family - my children, my grandchildren, my great grandchildren hold me in considerable esteem. To have a four year old call you on the phone and sing happy birthday to you in a sweet voice

is like hearing angels.

3. I learned that my circle of friends was larger and more loving and concerned than I ever imagined, and

that they spanned ages from 6 to 90 .

4. I learned that PF is just another element in my life, a thought that I have incorporated but yet

respect, and that my life goes on very much like it did before, but with the annoyance of a drippy

five year old's nose, and an aggravting cough. No one but me pays these things any attention.

5. I learned that I now live my life with a heightened sensitivty to things I used to take for granted:

a magnificant surnise, a flock of ravens in my yard, a mama deer and her kid in the woods, a moose dancing across the highway before I get too close to cause an accident, the neighbor's cat chasing

a squirrel, only to lose it when it races up a tree trunk.

6. I learned that I love life and that with the right attitude life loves me, even with the PF.

7. I learned that I want to make it to 100, and that I have the will and the means to do so if I coddle the devil in my lungs and work to keep him still.

8. Most of all, I learned to love this great Air Family which has given me more love than I deserve and

taught me more about life than I thought there was to know.

Thank you - all of you - I love you.

Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine

From: Bruce Moreland <brucemoreland@ gmail.com>To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. comSent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:40:20 PMSubject: How PF has improved my life

Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

Spoken like a true gentleman.

B

Barbara McD

IPF, Sept 08

Beautiful Western NC

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

To: Breathe-Support Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 6:02:49 PMSubject: Re: How PF has improved my life

Since I was dx nearly five years ago, I have done a few things.

1. I reached the age of 80. To my surprise, it was a kind of freedom, to be wholely myself without concern for what others may think or do.

2. I learned that family - my children, my grandchildren, my great grandchildren hold me in considerable esteem. To have a four year old call you on the phone and sing happy birthday to you in a sweet voice

is like hearing angels.

3. I learned that my circle of friends was larger and more loving and concerned than I ever imagined, and

that they spanned ages from 6 to 90 .

4. I learned that PF is just another element in my life, a thought that I have incorporated but yet

respect, and that my life goes on very much like it did before, but with the annoyance of a drippy

five year old's nose, and an aggravting cough. No one but me pays these things any attention.

5. I learned that I now live my life with a heightened sensitivty to things I used to take for granted:

a magnificant surnise, a flock of ravens in my yard, a mama deer and her kid in the woods, a moose dancing across the highway before I get too close to cause an accident, the neighbor's cat chasing

a squirrel, only to lose it when it races up a tree trunk.

6. I learned that I love life and that with the right attitude life loves me, even with the PF.

7. I learned that I want to make it to 100, and that I have the will and the means to do so if I coddle the devil in my lungs and work to keep him still.

8. Most of all, I learned to love this great Air Family which has given me more love than I deserve and

taught me more about life than I thought there was to know.

Thank you - all of you - I love you.

Jack79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine

From: Bruce Moreland <brucemoreland@ gmail.com>To: Breathe-Support@ yahoogroups. comSent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:40:20 PMSubject: How PF has improved my life

Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

How PF has improved my life

Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. NasturtiumsDon't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

How PF has improved my life

Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequentevents have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'mgoing to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important toremind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill amongthe newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what haveyou gained or what is better than before or what have you done sincediagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

[Guest guest]

Hi Bruce

You are so right. Finding out I had IPF in May 07 was very scary and very

upsetting but then I figured " Hell, whatever time I have left do I want to spend

it being sad, scared and miserable; or enjoying every single moment I have? " . I

chose the latter. I was 55 at the time and had always thought that ONE DAY I

would love to learn to play the piano. So, I have been taking piano lessons and

I absolutely love it. I could not even read a single note of music and now I

can play Beethoven and Brahms. My inlaws loved that I was taking piano lessons

and gave me an old piano my husband had learned to play on as a child.

I also knew for a long time that as a grandchild of four people born in Ireland,

I could become an Irish citizen and still keep my American citizenship. In

November 2008 I officially was entered into the Irish Foreign books registry as

an Irish Citizen. I could never be more prouder than being American but this is

the second best!! These are two things that I am sure I would never have gotten

around to if not for the dreaded diagnosis!

Life should not be measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that take

our breath away!

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

>

> Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> Nasturtiums

> Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

>

> How PF has improved my life

>

>

> Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

>

[Guest guest]

Hi Bruce

You are so right. Finding out I had IPF in May 07 was very scary and very

upsetting but then I figured " Hell, whatever time I have left do I want to spend

it being sad, scared and miserable; or enjoying every single moment I have? " . I

chose the latter. I was 55 at the time and had always thought that ONE DAY I

would love to learn to play the piano. So, I have been taking piano lessons and

I absolutely love it. I could not even read a single note of music and now I

can play Beethoven and Brahms. My inlaws loved that I was taking piano lessons

and gave me an old piano my husband had learned to play on as a child.

I also knew for a long time that as a grandchild of four people born in Ireland,

I could become an Irish citizen and still keep my American citizenship. In

November 2008 I officially was entered into the Irish Foreign books registry as

an Irish Citizen. I could never be more prouder than being American but this is

the second best!! These are two things that I am sure I would never have gotten

around to if not for the dreaded diagnosis!

Life should not be measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that take

our breath away!

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

>

> Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> Nasturtiums

> Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

>

> How PF has improved my life

>

>

> Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

>

[Guest guest]

Eileen,

How inspriational is THAT... WOW Brahms & Beethoven.. two of my favourites for the Piano... would you believe I was prompted to do some playing on my piano just this morning by my 6 year old grand-daughter. I really enjoyed myself & played on for ages after she had been picked up by her Mum.

I found myself wondering why I play so little when I actua;;y get a great deal of pleasure from doing it.. new reslove ... to open that keyboard more often!

Do you know I love playing my early pieces just as much as the stuff I was doing right at the ned of my School Music. I can remeber the thrill of getting to play pices that sounded really 'oomphy' even though it was only 2nd grade & I was around 9 years old.. they still sound 'oomphy' to me!

Congrats on your irish Citizenshiop too... I really 'get that' as a Family Historian with lots of Irish ancestry... my 'closest' in generations is my Derry born Grandfather .. that entitles me to have my Pasport stamped as a 'British' citizen but I dodn't think it gets me 'Irish Repbublic' staus... it may though since I have distnat rellies who live in Northern Ireland but who also have Repbublican Passports from Eire. Must check that out.

Where were you grandparents from in Ireland?????

in Oz> >> > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.> > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. > > Nasturtiums> > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!> > > > How PF has improved my life> > > > > > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?> >>

[Guest guest]

Eileen,

How inspriational is THAT... WOW Brahms & Beethoven.. two of my favourites for the Piano... would you believe I was prompted to do some playing on my piano just this morning by my 6 year old grand-daughter. I really enjoyed myself & played on for ages after she had been picked up by her Mum.

I found myself wondering why I play so little when I actua;;y get a great deal of pleasure from doing it.. new reslove ... to open that keyboard more often!

Do you know I love playing my early pieces just as much as the stuff I was doing right at the ned of my School Music. I can remeber the thrill of getting to play pices that sounded really 'oomphy' even though it was only 2nd grade & I was around 9 years old.. they still sound 'oomphy' to me!

Congrats on your irish Citizenshiop too... I really 'get that' as a Family Historian with lots of Irish ancestry... my 'closest' in generations is my Derry born Grandfather .. that entitles me to have my Pasport stamped as a 'British' citizen but I dodn't think it gets me 'Irish Repbublic' staus... it may though since I have distnat rellies who live in Northern Ireland but who also have Repbublican Passports from Eire. Must check that out.

Where were you grandparents from in Ireland?????

in Oz> >> > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.> > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR. > > Nasturtiums> > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!> > > > How PF has improved my life> > > > > > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?> >>

[Guest guest]

Aaah Bruce... Jack ... you are both so on the money!

I esepcially love that each new morning has a freshness that's never gone away since I was first diagnosed!

Oh & that my grandchildren are even MORE precious than ever!

Cheers,

in Oz

>> Since I was dx nearly five years ago, I have done a few things.> > 1. I reached the age of 80. To my surprise, it was a kind of freedom, to be wholely myself without concern for what others may think or do.> > 2.. I learned that family - my children, my grandchildren, my great grandchildren hold me in considerable esteem. To have a four year old call you on the phone and sing happy birthday to you in a sweet voice> is like hearing angels.> > 3. I learned that my circle of friends was larger and more loving and concerned than I ever imagined, and > that they spanned ages from 6 to 90 .> > 4. I learned that PF is just another element in my life, a thought that I have incorporated but yet > respect, and that my life goes on very much like it did before, but with the annoyance of a drippy> five year old's nose, and an aggravting cough. No one but me pays these things any attention.> > 5. I learned that I now live my life with a heightened sensitivty to things I used to take for granted:> a magnificant surnise, a flock of ravens in my yard, a mama deer and her kid in the woods, a moose dancing across the highway before I get too close to cause an accident, the neighbor's cat chasing > a squirrel, only to lose it when it races up a tree trunk.> > 6. I learned that I love life and that with the right attitude life loves me, even with the PF.> > 7. I learned that I want to make it to 100, and that I have the will and the means to do so if I coddle the devil in my lungs and work to keep him still.> > 8. Most of all, I learned to love this great Air Family which has given me more love than I deserve and> taught me more about life than I thought there was to know.> > Thank you - all of you - I love you.> > > Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > > > > > ________________________________> To: Breathe-Support > Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:40:20 PM> Subject: How PF has improved my life> > > Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?>

[Guest guest]

Aaah Bruce... Jack ... you are both so on the money!

I esepcially love that each new morning has a freshness that's never gone away since I was first diagnosed!

Oh & that my grandchildren are even MORE precious than ever!

Cheers,

in Oz

>> Since I was dx nearly five years ago, I have done a few things.> > 1. I reached the age of 80. To my surprise, it was a kind of freedom, to be wholely myself without concern for what others may think or do.> > 2.. I learned that family - my children, my grandchildren, my great grandchildren hold me in considerable esteem. To have a four year old call you on the phone and sing happy birthday to you in a sweet voice> is like hearing angels.> > 3. I learned that my circle of friends was larger and more loving and concerned than I ever imagined, and > that they spanned ages from 6 to 90 .> > 4. I learned that PF is just another element in my life, a thought that I have incorporated but yet > respect, and that my life goes on very much like it did before, but with the annoyance of a drippy> five year old's nose, and an aggravting cough. No one but me pays these things any attention.> > 5. I learned that I now live my life with a heightened sensitivty to things I used to take for granted:> a magnificant surnise, a flock of ravens in my yard, a mama deer and her kid in the woods, a moose dancing across the highway before I get too close to cause an accident, the neighbor's cat chasing > a squirrel, only to lose it when it races up a tree trunk.> > 6. I learned that I love life and that with the right attitude life loves me, even with the PF.> > 7. I learned that I want to make it to 100, and that I have the will and the means to do so if I coddle the devil in my lungs and work to keep him still.> > 8. Most of all, I learned to love this great Air Family which has given me more love than I deserve and> taught me more about life than I thought there was to know.> > Thank you - all of you - I love you.> > > Jack> 79/IPF - UIP/dx06/05 Maine > > > > > ________________________________> To: Breathe-Support > Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 1:40:20 PM> Subject: How PF has improved my life> > > Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?>

[Guest guest]

Oh yes life changing aspects do occur. I was always the one who did everything for

everybody and while I still do what I can, now I ask for help doing those

things I can no longer handle safely. I thank God for O2 and love the fact that now

that I have my red Jazzy chair I can go places and not be huffing and puffing

(if I put a HD sticker on does that make it a Jazzy HOGJ) I go to work every day and

thank God I still can, but I no longer let it stress me like it did. I won’t get fired because I work for family,

I will leave when I know it’s time.

Every day that I can see my children and grandchildren I do and I tell

the people I love just that. And yes if spending

all day in my pj’s and watching bad sci-fi movies makes me happy then that’s what

I will do. I will continue to laugh when

people ask if I get depressed, of course I do but laughing is way more fun than

crying. And I will not feel guilty when

I do cry because I deserve to be able to do that also. And I will continue to take heart from all on

this board.

Dyane Phoenix, AZ Diabetes,

Fibromyalgia, Breast Cancer, Lipodermatosclerosis, IPF DX 2002

“Life’s journey is not to end up in a well preserved body,

but to slide in worn out, totally used up shouting “Holy S**t, what a ride!â€â€

>> Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?>

[Guest guest]

Oh yes life changing aspects do occur. I was always the one who did everything for

everybody and while I still do what I can, now I ask for help doing those

things I can no longer handle safely. I thank God for O2 and love the fact that now

that I have my red Jazzy chair I can go places and not be huffing and puffing

(if I put a HD sticker on does that make it a Jazzy HOGJ) I go to work every day and

thank God I still can, but I no longer let it stress me like it did. I won’t get fired because I work for family,

I will leave when I know it’s time.

Every day that I can see my children and grandchildren I do and I tell

the people I love just that. And yes if spending

all day in my pj’s and watching bad sci-fi movies makes me happy then that’s what

I will do. I will continue to laugh when

people ask if I get depressed, of course I do but laughing is way more fun than

crying. And I will not feel guilty when

I do cry because I deserve to be able to do that also. And I will continue to take heart from all on

this board.

Dyane Phoenix, AZ Diabetes,

Fibromyalgia, Breast Cancer, Lipodermatosclerosis, IPF DX 2002

“Life’s journey is not to end up in a well preserved body,

but to slide in worn out, totally used up shouting “Holy S**t, what a ride!â€â€

>> Ok....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.> But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent> events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm> going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.> While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to> remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among> the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have> you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since> diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?>

[Guest guest]

I know what you mean about the piano. I am sure I sound like an 8 year old but

to me the miracle of doing something I always thought was so amazing is beyond

words. My little niece is learning guitar and we made a deal to practice

playing at the same time each day. I am going to Wisconsin in May for her

brother's First Communion and she and I are going to try to play something

together. Amazing... just amazing. I will think of you now when I am playing

also.

My father's parents were from County Kerry and County Clare. My mothers from

County Kilkenny and County Tyrone. I applied through my grandfather Galvin -

the one from Kerry. Back then they were all considered British citizens so you

should check out the Derry connection.

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

> > >

> > > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > > Nasturtiums

> > > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> > >

> > > How PF has improved my life

> > >

> > >

> > > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane

> topic.

> > > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and

> subsequent

> > > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained.

> I'm

> > > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's

> important to

> > > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill

> among

> > > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what

> have

> > > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I know what you mean about the piano. I am sure I sound like an 8 year old but

to me the miracle of doing something I always thought was so amazing is beyond

words. My little niece is learning guitar and we made a deal to practice

playing at the same time each day. I am going to Wisconsin in May for her

brother's First Communion and she and I are going to try to play something

together. Amazing... just amazing. I will think of you now when I am playing

also.

My father's parents were from County Kerry and County Clare. My mothers from

County Kilkenny and County Tyrone. I applied through my grandfather Galvin -

the one from Kerry. Back then they were all considered British citizens so you

should check out the Derry connection.

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

> > >

> > > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > > Nasturtiums

> > > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> > >

> > > How PF has improved my life

> > >

> > >

> > > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane

> topic.

> > > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and

> subsequent

> > > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained.

> I'm

> > > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's

> important to

> > > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill

> among

> > > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what

> have

> > > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

I know what you mean about the piano. I am sure I sound like an 8 year old but

to me the miracle of doing something I always thought was so amazing is beyond

words. My little niece is learning guitar and we made a deal to practice

playing at the same time each day. I am going to Wisconsin in May for her

brother's First Communion and she and I are going to try to play something

together. Amazing... just amazing. I will think of you now when I am playing

also.

My father's parents were from County Kerry and County Clare. My mothers from

County Kilkenny and County Tyrone. I applied through my grandfather Galvin -

the one from Kerry. Back then they were all considered British citizens so you

should check out the Derry connection.

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

> > >

> > > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > > Nasturtiums

> > > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> > >

> > > How PF has improved my life

> > >

> > >

> > > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane

> topic.

> > > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and

> subsequent

> > > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained.

> I'm

> > > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's

> important to

> > > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill

> among

> > > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what

> have

> > > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Beth

We may be related!! My paternal grandfather was from County Kerry also. He was

born in Kenmare. Kerry is one of the most beautiful counties to me!!!

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07-

-- In Breathe-Support , Beth wrote:

>

> Eileen

> Congratulations on your Irish citizenship! I'm a tad jealous. My family has

been in the states since the time of the famine so I'm too many generations

removed to qualify.

> My paternal grandfather's family is from Kerry on the west coast. Where is

yours from?

>  

> Beth

> Moderator

> Fibrotic NSIP 06/06 Dermatomyositis 11/08

>

>

>

>

> ________________________________

> From: nivlag1

> To: Breathe-Support

> Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 9:28:10 PM

> Subject: Re: How PF has improved my life

>

>

> Hi Bruce

> You are so right. Finding out I had IPF in May 07 was very scary and very

upsetting but then I figured " Hell, whatever time I have left do I want to spend

it being sad, scared and miserable; or enjoying every single moment I have? " . I

chose the latter. I was 55 at the time and had always thought that ONE DAY I

would love to learn to play the piano. So, I have been taking piano lessons and

I absolutely love it. I could not even read a single note of music and now I can

play Beethoven and Brahms. My inlaws loved that I was taking piano lessons and

gave me an old piano my husband had learned to play on as a child.

>

> I also knew for a long time that as a grandchild of four people born in

Ireland, I could become an Irish citizen and still keep my American citizenship.

In November 2008 I officially was entered into the Irish Foreign books registry

as an Irish Citizen. I could never be more prouder than being American but this

is the second best!! These are two things that I am sure I would never have

gotten around to if not for the dreaded diagnosis!

>

> Life should not be measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that

take our breath away!

>

> Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

>

>

> >

> > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > Nasturtiums

> > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> >

> > How PF has improved my life

> >

> >

> > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Beth

We may be related!! My paternal grandfather was from County Kerry also. He was

born in Kenmare. Kerry is one of the most beautiful counties to me!!!

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07-

-- In Breathe-Support , Beth wrote:

>

> Eileen

> Congratulations on your Irish citizenship! I'm a tad jealous. My family has

been in the states since the time of the famine so I'm too many generations

removed to qualify.

> My paternal grandfather's family is from Kerry on the west coast. Where is

yours from?

>  

> Beth

> Moderator

> Fibrotic NSIP 06/06 Dermatomyositis 11/08

>

>

>

>

> ________________________________

> From: nivlag1

> To: Breathe-Support

> Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 9:28:10 PM

> Subject: Re: How PF has improved my life

>

>

> Hi Bruce

> You are so right. Finding out I had IPF in May 07 was very scary and very

upsetting but then I figured " Hell, whatever time I have left do I want to spend

it being sad, scared and miserable; or enjoying every single moment I have? " . I

chose the latter. I was 55 at the time and had always thought that ONE DAY I

would love to learn to play the piano. So, I have been taking piano lessons and

I absolutely love it. I could not even read a single note of music and now I can

play Beethoven and Brahms. My inlaws loved that I was taking piano lessons and

gave me an old piano my husband had learned to play on as a child.

>

> I also knew for a long time that as a grandchild of four people born in

Ireland, I could become an Irish citizen and still keep my American citizenship.

In November 2008 I officially was entered into the Irish Foreign books registry

as an Irish Citizen. I could never be more prouder than being American but this

is the second best!! These are two things that I am sure I would never have

gotten around to if not for the dreaded diagnosis!

>

> Life should not be measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that

take our breath away!

>

> Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

>

>

> >

> > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > Nasturtiums

> > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> >

> > How PF has improved my life

> >

> >

> > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Beth

We may be related!! My paternal grandfather was from County Kerry also. He was

born in Kenmare. Kerry is one of the most beautiful counties to me!!!

Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07-

-- In Breathe-Support , Beth wrote:

>

> Eileen

> Congratulations on your Irish citizenship! I'm a tad jealous. My family has

been in the states since the time of the famine so I'm too many generations

removed to qualify.

> My paternal grandfather's family is from Kerry on the west coast. Where is

yours from?

>  

> Beth

> Moderator

> Fibrotic NSIP 06/06 Dermatomyositis 11/08

>

>

>

>

> ________________________________

> From: nivlag1

> To: Breathe-Support

> Sent: Friday, March 27, 2009 9:28:10 PM

> Subject: Re: How PF has improved my life

>

>

> Hi Bruce

> You are so right. Finding out I had IPF in May 07 was very scary and very

upsetting but then I figured " Hell, whatever time I have left do I want to spend

it being sad, scared and miserable; or enjoying every single moment I have? " . I

chose the latter. I was 55 at the time and had always thought that ONE DAY I

would love to learn to play the piano. So, I have been taking piano lessons and

I absolutely love it. I could not even read a single note of music and now I can

play Beethoven and Brahms. My inlaws loved that I was taking piano lessons and

gave me an old piano my husband had learned to play on as a child.

>

> I also knew for a long time that as a grandchild of four people born in

Ireland, I could become an Irish citizen and still keep my American citizenship.

In November 2008 I officially was entered into the Irish Foreign books registry

as an Irish Citizen. I could never be more prouder than being American but this

is the second best!! These are two things that I am sure I would never have

gotten around to if not for the dreaded diagnosis!

>

> Life should not be measured by the breaths we take; but by the moments that

take our breath away!

>

> Eileen 57 IPF/UIP May 07

>

>

> >

> > Me too Jackie boy. I love ya.

> > MamaSher; 70, IPF 3-06, OR.

> > Nasturtiums

> > Don't fret about tomorrow, God is already there!

> >

> > How PF has improved my life

> >

> >

> > Ok.....I know to some, especially newcomers, this is an insane topic.

> > But, I know there are many ways in which the diagnosis and subsequent

> > events have actually made my life better. I know things I've gained. I'm

> > going to reserve my list a bit and just want to hear others answer.

> > While none of us would have chosen to have PF, I think it's important to

> > remind ourselves of the good aspects of our lives and to instill among

> > the newcomers the hope, not of a cure, but of a good life. So, what have

> > you gained or what is better than before or what have you done since

> > diagnosis that you might not have otherwise?

> >

>