Sofia

Sofia, a woman with dark hair and floral top on

I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis...

I was 28 years old when I was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. I was already living with lupas, sjogren syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis. My doctor seems to think a medication induced my lung conditions but some say it was due to my auto immune conditions. At the time, my four children were between 6 and 1, they motivated me. I have support from my husband, but help from my family is limited as they live far away.

It was very difficult as my body was changing. I was in pain and discomfort a lot alongside high medication where the side effects were horrible. I dealt with this by taking each day as it came and remained positive and hoping there was some light in the tunnel.

I take each day slowly, I don't work or socialise, I was 28 then and now I am 37. I try not to exert myself, I have 3 major lung conditions such has, lung fibrosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension and pulmonary embolism plus with my autoimmune conditions. I also recently been diagnosed with Nephritis lupas which I am having chemotherapy drug called cyclophosphamide to treat this.

I do lung exercises by sitting down, by moving my chest and take deep breaths and try to eat healthy each day and I don't stress anymore. My children are now between 9 and 15, and they still motivate me, as they are older they help me a lot.

What has helped you the most since being diagnosed at a young age?

My children, me being a mum and not being negative. I do things that make me happy and I stay focussed on that. I don't let negative thoughts come into my mind regardless of how many conditions I have been diagnosed with. I am still thankful I am here with my children. I lost my job due to being told I have severe disability which will affect me as I get older. Life isn't the same any more but I have to take it easy.

If you would like information or support on living with pulmonary fibrosis, please get in touch.

If you would like to share your story of pulmonary fibrosis, please contact Charlotte.