Coping with IPF

by George Tiffany

My name is George and I am seventy-nine years of age. In the fall of 2009, I came down with what I thought was a cold but it would not go away. I went to the doctor, was diagnosed with bronchitis, and started taking antibiotics. That did not seem to work. I was referred to a pulmonologist and after a series of tests and delays of one kind or another, was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in August, 2010.

I have led a wonderful life, married to a very special person, and have three lovely daughters. Since my diagnosis I have been on two clinical trials, and while my health has declined somewhat, I still believe it is an extraordinary life, filled with love, sharing experiences at home and abroad, and still doing many of the things I love to do.

I am blessed to have the best of physicians, time with my family, and to share my life with my beautiful wife. What more could anyone want?