By: Summer Katz, M.A., LMHC

Living with a chronic illness such as cystic fibrosis can be overwhelming and cumbersome. The medication routine, the hours spent participating in treatment interventions and the regular attendance at doctor’s appointments or hospitalizations – all require adherence to a strict regimen. Because CF patients experience all of these things on a constant basis, there are moments where we may feel heightened frustration and be discouraged. Taking advantage of available, supportive resources can play an important role in our motivation to keep going and continue down that healthy path.

Reaching out for support is one of the best options to engage in healthy coping. There are many times, as well as many reasons, when we realize that so much of this experience is completely out of our control. With that being said, it is inevitable that we allow ourselves to be open enough to receiving the support and assistance from others when we ultimately need it and can benefit from it.

There are a variety of assistance and supportive resources available to individuals and families impacted by cystic fibrosis and other chronic illnesses. Many of these programs have been available for some time, while others are newer or are temporary options.

We have listed several resource options below and would encourage you to inquire directly with the program(s) to determine availability and applicability to your needs. This is not an all-inclusive list. You may consider first reviewing the items, then utilizing the topics for your own further research to benefit you specifically.

PATIENT RESOURCES LIST – CLICK HERE