Newly Diagnosed very scared

[Guest guest]

Tammy,

On the down side of things, this is hardly the news you want to hear, and so close to the holidays. I am sorry. But so glad you found us here, and I promise you we do "get it" here.

I first began seeking help for my tiredness and cough about 5 years ago. After being diagnosed with IPF in June 05, I looked for a medical center involved in medical trials for IPF near me. There are 22 such medical facilities around the U.S. that you may want to look into. You ay not feel the need right away, but being where all the researh is going on gives me some peace of mind.

And thank gdness you are taking good care of yourself. To give you little nudge in that direction, last year I managed to bicycle 80 miles twice. Not bragging of course, but letting you know that your diagnosis is ot the en of your good life. And oths on this board have lived upwards of 1 years, so take heart. When I was diagnosed in June of 05, I didn't have the benenefit of this board, and I will tell you that I was very scared. and at that time I needed oxygen therapy 24/7, even while resting. So I do believe that good nutrition and exercise help. I have walked 6 miles every day for the pas 4 years. maylive to the day when research begins to mke a difference, so hang in there. Also as you exercise, you will want to measure your oxygen saturatio level. have found that keeping diary of my saturation level at a prticular speed on my treadmill (say MP) gives me, and my pulmonogist, a good idea of my progress.

You can find an oximeter online for as little as $65.

As I have said before, this can be a very special time in your life. I love, and am loved, by famly and friends than ever before. This is truly a very special time in my life. What I thought was the end, wasn't. So take very good care of yourself, and as others here will tell you, good times still await you. Enjoy this holiday season.

Jerry/Mississippi/54/IPF/dx April 05

Who believes that hard times help us appreciate the good times even more.