Winter 2001 - Newsletter
Sports & Exercise
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Dear Kim. . .
by Kim Dutton Brindley, M. Ed.
This is a time for questions to be addressed by our CF counselor as we learn how Cystic Fibrosis affects us and those around us that we love.
Q. I used to be able to "keep up" with others physically, but I can't do this as much now. I don't really want to tell others why I can't do this, but I know they wonder what is going on with me. What do you think?
A. In most cases, it is your choice to tell others if you have CF and the medical issues related to CF. Ask yourself what the possible pros and cons of telling others. What would be the worst ting that could happen if you told them? Really think about this. It is probably not nearly as upsetting as you may have originally thought. How would you feel if your closest friends didn't tell you about their struggles, problems, or concerns?
If you decide to tell others, start with one or two of your closest friends. Remember each person is unique and will respond differently to hearing all different types of information. Try not to base one person's response on how everyone will respond.
Q. Sometimes I just want to ignore that I have CF -- is this normal?
A. Yes. In the game of life everyone wants to take a vacation every now and then to get away from the daily routine. However, as you know, there is no break from CF, CPT, etc... Is there any way you can create a break or vacation for yourself during treatments? For example, while you are doing your treatments, go to a different are from where you usually do treatments...listen to the travel channel on TV -- close your eyes and pretend you are there! Hey, even dress up for the part!
Outside the daily treatments, maximize wanting to ignore CF by putting your energy into doing fun activities and achieving in school, work, and personal goals for yourself.