I am a non CFer, and am new to posting here, but have lurked for quite a while. I do have a disability for which I use crutches. The disability is spina bifida, and occurs when the spine does not form properly as a fetus. I use crutches, and always will, and always have. This is the life I have. I am currently unemployed, but this is due to a layoff, and I will be reentering the force soon, I think. I am not homebound, and have no problem with being seen in public. I follow pro soccer and college gymnastics, both of which I travel out of market several times a year for. I also enjoy photography. I am hit and miss with my own, but I like doing it, and I like witnessing others. I have to move a bit more slowly than others, but so it is.
With CF, you have other issues. Tons of meds, oxygen at times, treatments, enduring soreness after tx, making sure to wear a mask in public where warranted. But you can lead a rewarding life with all that, just as I can with all my limitations. While I take no offense at this thread or its posts, I'll just simply say it does no good to compare sob stories. Yes, we all have down days, and yes we need to acknowledge that. But we are people above all else. I was able to meet in person a CFer that I had communicated with online recently. She was the guest of honor of a benefit concert in Erie to help with tx expenses.
She in her mask, me in my crutches. Both of us kind of having to watch ourselves, but both having a lovely time living life at the concert. Going back to the very first post, I guess the point is, we don't need to compare ourselves in a way that looks down on the other person in order to elevate yourself. I understand that we all do, but it's not a good habit. We all have personas. We all have things that make life worth living for us. Could be a hobby, could be a loved person. Life shouldn't be a contest. Enjoy life alongside CF in the way that's most satisfying to you. For me, I'll continue to do the same, but with SB instead of CF, for better or worse.
Peace to you all, and thank you for an interesting conversation.
<a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="http://www.sbaa.org/site/c.gpILKXOEJqG/b.2028877/k.E453/Overview.htm">http://www.sbaa.org/site/c.gpI...77/k.E453/Overview.htm</a> a bit about spina bifida
<a target=_blank class=ftalternatingbarlinklarge href="http://www.fightingtobreathe.com/aboutme.html">http://www.fightingtobreathe.com/aboutme.html</a> a CF patient I met that helped increase my interest in the condition