Life with CF

Someone once said that our greatest glory is not in never falling...but in getting up each time we do-

For the past 7 years, this has been my mantra. When I was 21, I was told by my new "adult" CF doctor that I would probably never be able to have kids. The chances of conceiving were slim and the chances of being able to carry a baby to term were even more bleak. I was so completely upset and devastated, as the tactless man threw a pamphlet at me. I didn't know what to do, but to walk out of the room and go straight to my car....where I cried. But after that, there wasn't going to be any more crying for me, not about that. I decided right then and there that no doctor was going to tell me what I was and was not capable of doing.

I am not made of steel, but I know I am incredibly strong. I have always found a way of dealing with all the various challenges that life has thrown my way. It does sometimes feel like I was forced into a boxing ring and keep getting knocked down. It was not my choice to be here, but I have been dealt my hand in life and am here nonetheless. The fight doesn't seem fair because maybe the disease is stronger or more powerful. Every time I find the courage to get back up, another punch comes my way. Or it feels like I am bobbing around in the ocean, struggling to keep my head above water and keep treading. But sometimes I get exhausted and my head drifts beneath the surface. Somehow, I always manage to gather ounces of strength to push my head upwards and take another breath.