I’m still healing from trauma 7 years after a double-lung transplant
It feels surreal that I had a double-lung transplant seven years ago. The season of life leading up to my transplant is still present in my mind as I reflect on what I…
Valiant Voice — Lara Govendo
Lara Govendo resides in Vermont as a wild, adventurous lady who also happens to be a licensed clinical professional counselor. She dives deep into controversial topics by talking about her own struggles to help others feel less alone, educate about all aspects of health, and encourage others that there’s always hope. Thanks to her double-lung transplant in 2017 due to cystic fibrosis, you can now find Lara ministering about Jesus, exploring the glorious outdoors with her husband, and belly laughing with people around the planet. She can be reached on her website at www.hungry4hopeconsulting.com.
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What I look for when I’m on a search for doctors
I have a love-hate relationship with doctors. Being born with cystic fibrosis (CF) has afforded me the opportunity to have experiences with several doctors throughout my life. Having a double-lung transplant seven…
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Lessons on death and grief, a commonality in our communities
Living with cystic fibrosis (CF) and having a double-lung transplant six years ago has naturally solicited some internal rumbling regarding my own mortality. When I joined the chronic illness community…
When health crises occur, it’s crucial I advocate for myself
After my double-lung transplant six years ago, I struggled to exercise. I was breathless and had symptoms of hypoxia, or low oxygen, which didn’t make sense given that I’d just had…
For this Disability Pride Month, find ways to celebrate your status
Disabilities typically don’t go hand in hand with celebrations. In fact, messages from the able-bodied have told me my whole life that I should hide the part of me that’s significantly affected who I…
Gardening cultivates fresh perspectives on my own growth
During the COVID-19 pandemic, I took up gardening as a hobby. Since I was high-risk for catching the virus because of my cystic fibrosis (CF) and a suppressed immune system from my…
Learning about the link between my medical trauma and PTSD
As we bring attention to National PTSD Awareness Month this June, I want to shed light on my personal journey of recognizing the symptoms in case you’re in a similar boat. After my…
A letter to my younger self offers wisdom gleaned from experience
As we approach the end of Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, I want to share some wisdom I wish my younger self would’ve known at the start of my journey with this rare…
The consequences of having difficulty gaining weight with CF
Since I was born with cystic fibrosis (CF), gaining weight has always been a challenge for me. CF doesn’t only affect the lungs; it can also cause a number of gastrointestinal (GI) issues.
Here’s why it’s important to become an organ donor
I am a strong advocate for organ donation because I was on the receiving end of a double-lung transplant in 2017. Not only did it save my life, but it also radically…
Past trauma left me full of anxiety before my most recent surgery
I’ve had so many surgeries that I’ve lost track. You’d think I’d be used to the routine by now, but I’m not. With each surgery comes more anxiety as my trauma stacks up. I…
Why toxic positivity doesn’t work in the chronic illness community
“Everything will be fine. You just have to stay positive.” Ever heard this idea while dealing with a chronic health condition? If so, you’re not alone. Born with cystic fibrosis (CF),…
Waiting for a CF lung transplant? Here’s what you need to know
Six years ago, I had a double-lung transplant because of severe cystic fibrosis (CF). I found the process traumatic, mostly because I didn’t feel prepared. I wish someone had taught me all…
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