Columns

June 17, 2019June 21, 2019

The Hidden Truths About My Strength

Columns, Life As A Caregiver - a Column By Colleen Steele

I wish I had a dollar for every time I’ve been described as strong, but what if people knew my weaknesses, unfathomable sadness, and heartbreaking mistakes? As a caregiver ... Read more

June 14, 2019June 12, 2019

Moving Forward Despite the Setbacks

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

In the last few months, I have spent more time in the hospital than at home. When I am discharged, I feel the anxiety that is normal for me ... Read more

June 10, 2019June 6, 2019

Am I a Caregiver or a Mom?

Columns, Life As A Caregiver - a Column By Colleen Steele

I struggled with the title for my column because what I write about will be from my perspective as caregiver to my son. However, using the word “caregiver” was ... Read more

June 7, 2019June 4, 2019

Having Hope Saved My Life Before Major Surgery

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

A month ago, I wasn’t sure when I would be writing again. I wrote my last column prior to a life-changing surgery, hoping that it wouldn’t be my last ... Read more

May 10, 2019May 23, 2019

Pain Makes Me Lose the ‘Real Me’ and I Don’t Like the Person I Become

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

My pain levels vary. Some days I feel “OK,” and I can go outside and enjoy myself. At other times, my pain levels are higher, and any activity leaves ... Read more

May 3, 2019May 2, 2019

The Waiting Is the Hardest Part: Anticipation Heightens My Anxiety

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

When I was younger, I was always “waiting” for something to happen. I can remember at 10 years old counting down the days and hours until the next big ... Read more

April 26, 2019April 30, 2019

I Will Not Apologize for Advocating for My Health

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

“Hi, this is Brittany calling again. I’m sorry to bother you, but did you get a chance to speak with the doctor?” I have repeated that line numerous times ... Read more

April 12, 2019April 10, 2019

The ‘Pains’ of Being in Severe Pain

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

“Rate your pain on a scale of 1 to 10, 10 being the worst you ever felt.” If I have learned one thing over the past few decades, it’s ... Read more

April 10, 2019April 9, 2019

Normal Lung Pressure Adds Pressure to Live to the Fullest

Columns, Life After PH – A Column By Kathleen Sheffer

My anxiety skyrocketed last month without any medical triggers. I celebrate my 26th birthday this weekend, and my third transplant anniversary is a couple of months away. I’m doing ... Read more

March 29, 2019March 27, 2019

Please Don’t Tell Me ‘It Could Be Worse’

Columns, Recharged and Rewired - a Column by Brittany Foster

“It could be worse.” It’s amazing how quickly these four words make my head spin. People living with chronic illness are well aware of the fact that “it could ... Read more