Over three years ago in the summer of 2019 I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), a fatal lung disease with a median survival time of 3-5 years. I reached out to the BC Lung Association to see if they could introduce me to others with IPF. They introduced me to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Support Group. There, I not only met others with IPF, but also Pulmonary Fibrosis, Pneumonitis, Scleroderma and even recipients of complete lung transplants as well. Their warm embrace and personal accounts were most reassuring.
Recently, after a renewed round of pulmonary testing through October 2022, including an updated HRCT scan of my lungs, I was presented with a regenerated diagnosis of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis. It was delivered by my specialist and his colleague at St. Paul's Hospital in Vancouver. I am still processing this news at the time of writing, not two weeks later, as one could imagine.
How Do I Manage My Lung Disease?
Above all, I've been gifted in having my wife and best friend Maura Byrne by my side for over 25 years. Maura's advice after her many years of professional experience as a counsellor and therapist, continues to guide me in ways I've never imagined. Also, I keep active with photography, and my passion for Science, Biological Anthropology and History of Western Canada.
I engage in outdoor activities within my capabilities. I especially love walks throughout my neighbourhood of James Bay and along the seashore here in Victoria, a remarkable city.
I am naturally curious and positive. I continue to follow valuable advice my Doctors provide. I truly live life to its fullest. The upside of living with a specific interstitial lung disease is a heightened sense of awareness it gives me of a dynamic living universe for which I am humbly grateful to be a part of.