This is a site where anyone (yes, anyone - the internet is public space) can come and share their thoughts, opinions, stories, and experiences. That automatically also makes it a bit of a cautious, "play-at-your-own-risk" sort of space. Which is not to say that people on this board shouldn't feel able to be open and honest - that is probably the best aspect of this site as a support group - but it is a gentle reminder that we are each responsible for our own actions on the site.
As for so-called "posers," I think it's very sad that people have to come on this board looking for attention by pretending to have CF. Frankly, those people are probably more in need of help than any of us actual CFers, although it's clearly not the type of help most of us are qualified to give. But as for people who have become hesitant to "speak" on this board because of possible posers, well, I would also point out that there are lurkers on this board by the hundreds. Many people have suggested that clinics or doctors check the site, and I am sure more than a couple curious google-addicts have found their way to CF.com. So the simple fact is that while this is a great source for info, it is also NOT a place for most private conversations or even, sadly, for assuming everyone on the board is somehow affected by CF. Without making some sort of screening process, this is just the nature of the beast.
With regards to the "read at your own risk" policy, I think it's a good one. This is a site for opinions, and that means opinions of all types. Some on the site would advocate testing and prevention prior to pregnancy but would never support abortion of a fetus because of CF. Others would advocate abortion as helpful in preventing suffering. Still others feel things are best left to a higher power, and some probably have no opinion on the subject at all. The fact of the matter is I don't think we can claim that any one thread or conversation is a more "legitimate" use of this site than others. Just keep in mind, both as you post and as you read, that people are going to inevitably disagree with you. Personally, I think that's a good thing - it brings more diversity of thought to the forum and therefore makes it both more helpful and more interesting. Maybe that's just because I'm a lawyer (lol), but even the Pope keeps the Devil's Advocate around.
Lauren, I'm sorry you're not feeling well and on IVs. Hope you feel better soon!
