About
Since I was diagnosed with IPF in 2019 I have learned much about lung disease and the great gains research has made in this field. A fall at work resulted in an x-ray that led to further investigation and identification of IPF. This was a shock because I saw fatigue as an age issue not a condition that related to poor health. Lung rehabilitation was helpful for developing lung specific exercise options that ensure I maintain an active lifestyle and positive outlook on life.
I have three children, five grandchildren and two cats. My husband died from Melanoma in 2014. I live at North Avoca on the central coast of NSW in the house we built in 1978. Not much has changed with the house but the local area is now a populated hub of activity. Two families live in Sydney and one son lives nearby with his wife and two young children. Although I retired in 2017, I work two days a week and am fortunate to be able to continue with a dynamic life managing the IPF. I have held various roles in school-based and corporate positions at the Department of Education NSW. Currently I am at a local high school as a tutor and Beginning Teacher mentor. Working closely with young teachers is exciting and inspiring.
Active participation in trials has embedded in me the importance and benefits of working collaboratively towards development of improved pathways for IPF patients and clinicians. I want to contribute to the gains this group can make to further research pulmonary fibrosis and I look forward to better outcomes for us all.