Lung, Scrappy, and Hungry – a Column by Nicole Kohr

Finding Peace With My New Body Means Accepting Change

Have you ever heard the phrase “I can’t slow down or I’ll stop?” I’ve always operated that way. I’ve always been accustomed to pushing myself and “sticking it to the man.” This gave me energy. More importantly, I was afraid that if I slowed down and accepted my situation —…

‘Blow, Nicole, Blow’: My Journey With PFTs

“Are you ready for your pulmonary function test, Nicole?” the respiratory therapist (RT) would ask. My answer was always no, I was never ready for the test. In fact, I’d panic over it for at least a week, clinging to the possibility that my lung function somehow had…

‘Satisfied’ (With My Care)

If you’ve ever been hospitalized, you likely received a survey upon discharge that asked, “Were you satisfied with your care?” Patient satisfaction is important because it helps hospital staff produce patient data, create new initiatives, and enhance transparency. I’ve been to many hospitals over the course of my career…

I Want to Do More Than Survive in Life After Transplant

Are you living or surviving? Most cystic fibrosis patients have dabbled with this question. To what extent does your health guide your life, rather than love or ambition? I knew the answer back in 2018, but after my bilateral lung transplant in June 2019, things grew complicated. Letting go…