Here are some highlights of an inspirational article I’d like to share… Boehringer Ingelheim, a pharmaceutical company specializing in rare pulmonary diseases, headquartered in Germany, is stepping up to the plate to support the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) community in partnership with a rising country music star.
After suffering for nearly three years before receiving a proper diagnosis his father lost his battle with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis at the age of only 46. The country music star vowed to lend his voice to help raise awareness for an effective treatment. Today, he is part of a national awareness campaign called Breathless: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at IPF.
You and your loved ones and friends are encouraged to join the campaign to share your personal story of how idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis has affected your family. The campaign hopes to bring increased awareness and inspiration to empower others to become their own health advocates.
One of the goals of the campaign is to make more people aware of the signs and symptoms of IPF that will help people to receive a proper diagnosis sooner. Although there is no cure for IPF, it is imperative for patients to receive early treatment, which may consist of:
- Medications
- Oxygen therapy
- Cough management
- Breathing, pulmonary therapy
Having more oxygen in the blood, helps to ease symptoms, making it less difficult and anxiety-prone to breathe. Getting treatment early can mean a better quality of life and may even extend life.
In previous articles, I shared that I had a dear family member who recently passed away from IPF. Her death has been extremely difficult for us, but has brought us together. I can relate to the country singer because, like his father, it took my loved one three years before she, too was diagnosed. I want to be more involved and welcome your suggestions…
You are not alone—WE are not alone.
