My new lungs enable me to enjoy life, even in cold temperatures
After years of hiding indoors, I can finally spend time outside during the winter
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Last weekend’s weather forecast called for a wind chill factor of -35 F. We don’t usually experience such low temperatures here in Vermont, but this winter has been hitting hard. Before I serenade you with “Ice Ice Baby,” I want to take a trip down memory lane. I am so grateful to no longer have cystic fibrosis (CF) lungs — and my reasons include both frigid temperatures and singing!
Cold weather was my archenemy prior to my double-lung transplant eight years ago. It was so hard to breathe in the cold air. Each inhale stung my lungs and left them aching, while each exhale brought a booming cough that rattled my rib cage, with thick, sticky mucus clogging my airways. As my lung function declined, it was harder to brave the winter wind.
For me, winter was never something to celebrate; it was something to avoid. I’d only leave my house for necessities, darting in and out of stores. I found solace in layering up and wearing a neck gaiter over my nose and mouth to block the icy wind. Thankfully, my disability placard allowed me to park as close as possible to the hospital and stores.
Being tethered to an oxygen tank in the winter months wasn’t fun. Not that it was ever fun, but pulling a tank through snow and ice was more work than I’d bargained for. The wheels would get covered in snow, preventing them from turning. I had to carry my tank outside, which left me even more breathless. It was an ordeal.
Hunkering down felt like the only option. Because I was on oxygen and often intravenous antibiotics, I was exhausted anyway and didn’t feel like leaving my house much. Curling up on the couch with cozy blankets and an obscene number of pillows just felt right. Saying “no” or canceling social plans happened regularly. When it was cold outside, I didn’t leave the house unless it was essential.
Nowadays, life is different.
A breath of fresh, cold air
I love going for winter walks. The peaceful silence when it’s snowing is one of my favorite things in the world. Who else loves pine trees that are covered in snow? It makes me feel like I’m living in Narnia!
I went skiing for the first time in 13 years after my transplant. I was like a little kid who couldn’t stop giggling with joy. Winter hikes with my husband or friends are magical adventures. I fully embrace being outside now that the cold hurts my face and not my lungs.
I’m living out a miracle in real time.
I no longer avoid leaving the house in cold weather. Not that I love negative temperatures, but my lungs are stronger now and can handle it. Breathing in the cold air without being thrown into a coughing fit never gets old. The difference between my life before and after transplant is dramatic.
For so many years, I struggled to enjoy winter, dodging plans and hiding in the comfort of my home. I never would have guessed that I’d be helping my neighbors clear snow off their cars when just a few short years ago, I needed the same help. My second chance at life not only saved me; it also gave me the opportunity to serve others in ways I never thought possible.
Bring it on, winter. You’ve become my new friend.
Note: Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cystic Fibrosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cystic fibrosis.
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