{"id":9842,"date":"2020-08-17T14:48:46","date_gmt":"2020-08-17T04:48:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?page_id=9842"},"modified":"2020-09-06T20:49:41","modified_gmt":"2020-09-06T10:49:41","slug":"after-your-diagnosis","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/after-your-diagnosis\/","title":{"rendered":"After your diagnosis"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":85,"featured_media":9843,"parent":9908,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-9842","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"yoast_head":"\nAfter your diagnosis - Lung Foundation Australia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/after-your-diagnosis\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"After your diagnosis - 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This is completely normal. Coping with your diagnosis can feel like a full-time job, and it can take a psychological toll. It\u2019s important to know you\u2019re not alone and there are several positive steps you can take.","link":null},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Understand your Diagnosis","paragraph_text":"<p>It is important to understand your diagnosis. You will probably have many questions and may not know where to begin or what questions to ask. Try to get as much information about your diagnosis as you can in order to make decisions with your doctor about your care. Lung Foundation Australia offers a range of free services and resources to help you better understand and cope with your diagnosis.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/support\/","target":""},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"image","heading_text":"","paragraph_text":"","button_display_setting":false,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":null,"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":7736,"id":7736,"title":"DSC_6165-1","filename":"DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","filesize":375945,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/news\/covid-19-programs-and-services-update\/attachment\/dsc_6165-1\/","alt":"","author":"12","description":"Tonia","caption":"","name":"dsc_6165-1","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":7733,"date":"2020-03-19 22:53:13","modified":"2021-03-23 23:04:10","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1709,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-768x513.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":513,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1024x684.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":684,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1536x1025.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1025,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-2048x1367.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1367,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1920x1282.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1282,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":855,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":401}},"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_content","heading":"Questions to ask your doctor","copy":"Write down your questions and concerns beforehand and bring them with you to your doctor\u2019s appointment. We recommend you have a family member or friend with you at your appointment to support you and hear what is being discussed. 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This service is available for patients, their families and carers at any stage of their lung cancer journey. The Lung Cancer Support Nurse is a highly experienced oncology nurse who can provide evidence-based information regarding diagnosis, treatment, symptom management and well-being, in addition to guidance about relevant support services.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Book an appointment ","url":"https:\/\/www.tfaforms.com\/4810353","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Respiratory Care Nurse","paragraph_text":"<p>We also offer people living with COPD or bronchiectasis access to a free <strong>Respiratory Care Nurse<\/strong> telephone service. \u00a0Our skilled nurse can provide guidance on all aspects of your condition according to the management guidelines and aims to connect you with the information and support to live well with your lung condition. Self-management support plays an important role in providing people with the skills and knowledge to self-manage their condition. The service offers three telephone appointments over a few months to ensure you receive the support you need.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Book an appointment ","url":"https:\/\/www.tfaforms.com\/4828245","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_content","heading":"What can I do if my child is diagnosed with a lung condition?","copy":"Being a parent of a child diagnosed with a lung condition can be extremely challenging as you need to understand the diagnosis and also explain the diagnosis to your child. Visit the Childhood Interstitial Lung Disease (ChILD) section of the website for information and advice.","image":{"ID":6969,"id":6969,"title":"family","filename":"family.jpg","filesize":812899,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/living-with-a-lung-disease\/childhood-lung-disease\/support\/family-3\/","alt":"","author":"1","description":"","caption":"","name":"family-3","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":6865,"date":"2019-11-28 23:48:08","modified":"2019-11-28 23:48:08","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":1200,"height":800,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-768x512.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":512,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-1024x683.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":683,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","1536x1536-width":1200,"1536x1536-height":800,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","2048x2048-width":1200,"2048x2048-height":800,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","xxlarge-width":1200,"xxlarge-height":800,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","xlarge-width":1200,"xlarge-height":800,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-480x800.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":800,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/family.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":400}},"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/living-with-a-lung-disease\/childhood-lung-disease\/diagnosis\/","target":""},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""}},{"acf_fc_layout":"lead_in_text","heading":"Access support","copy":"It is important to share how you are feeling about your lung disease diagnosis with friends and family and take advantage of other available support.\u00a0 Lung Foundation Australia has developed a number of support services to suit your needs.\u00a0","link":null},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Peer Support","paragraph_text":"<p>The range of emotions brought about by a lung disease or lung cancer diagnosis may affect your overall wellbeing. \u00a0Peer support can become an integral and helpful part of your life enabling you to talk with others who are experiencing a similar situation as you. \u00a0Lung Foundation Australia offers a comprehensive program of Peer Support including access to <strong>Peer Support Groups<\/strong> which meet face to face on a regular basis.\u00a0 Telephone support is also available via our <strong>Lung Cancer Telephone Support Groups<\/strong> and the <strong>Peer Connect<\/strong> program for people living with Pulmonary Fibrosis.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/peer-support\/","target":""},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"image","heading_text":"Education webinars","paragraph_text":"<p>A webinar is an interactive online presentation held over the internet with multiple people participating at the same time. \u00a0You can join the webinars live from the comfort of your own home or access a recording after the event. Webinars also provide an opportunity for participants to ask questions to the expert speakers in real time, increasing the value you will get out of your participation. This can be very beneficial for people located in a rural or remote areas, or isolated due to their condition, where access to education and support can be challenging.<\/p>\n<p>Lung Foundation Australia has developed an online webinar series called \u201cLive Well Breathe Better\u201d covering a number of lung disease areas. The webinars are delivered by experienced health professionals and patients and provide information, advice and support on living with a lung disease.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/get-support\/education-seminars\/","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":8684,"id":8684,"title":"Unrecognizable women relax together in group therapy","filename":"iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","filesize":365206,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/peer-support\/lung-cancer-support\/unrecognizable-women-relax-together-in-group-therapy-2\/","alt":"","author":"85","description":"","caption":"An unrecognizable group of women sit in a group therapy circle together. One woman has her hands clasped.","name":"unrecognizable-women-relax-together-in-group-therapy-2","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":8629,"date":"2020-05-13 08:41:42","modified":"2020-05-13 08:41:42","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1440,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-300x169.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":169,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-768x432.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":432,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-1024x576.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":576,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-1536x864.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":864,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-2048x1152.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1152,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-1920x1080.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1080,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":720,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":169,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":225,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/iStock-1055095302-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":338}},"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"column_content","columns":[{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Exercise\u00a0","paragraph_text":"<p>Research has shown that exercising is highly beneficial for people living with a chronic lung disease.\u00a0 It is widely recognised that regular exercise helps maintain your fitness, improves your wellbeing, reduces symptoms such as breathlessness and helps with managing depression and anxiety.\u00a0 People who exercise regularly can reduce their need for hospital admission.<\/p>\n<p>The thought of exercising may sound daunting, but there is evidence to show the effectiveness of exercise in people with different lung conditions, including COPD, bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease and lung cancer.\u00a0 Before starting a program, it is important to speak to your doctor to ensure you are medically fit to exercise and talk with a health professional such as a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist. \u00a0These Allied Health professional are equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies to design, deliver and evaluate safe and effective exercise interventions for people with a chronic medical condition.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/lung-disease-and-exercise\/","target":""},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":false,"youtube_video_url":""},{"column_type":"text","heading_text":"Education webinars","paragraph_text":"<p>A webinar is an interactive online presentation held over the internet with multiple people participating at the same time. \u00a0You can join the webinars live from the comfort of your own home or access a recording after the event.<\/p>\n<p>Webinars also provide an opportunity for participants to ask questions to the expert speakers in real time, increasing the value you will get out of your participation. This can be very beneficial for people located in a rural or remote areas, or isolated due to their condition, where access to education and support can be challenging.<\/p>\n<p>Lung Foundation Australia has developed an online webinar series called \u201cLive Well Breathe Better\u201d covering a number of lung disease areas. The webinars are delivered by experienced health professionals and patients and provide information, advice and support on living with a lung disease.<\/p>\n","button_display_setting":true,"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Find out more","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/support-services\/webinars\/","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""},"background_colour":"transparent","column_image":{"ID":9062,"id":9062,"title":"Senior woman exercising with dumbbells at home","filename":"Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","filesize":112602,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/lung-health\/protecting-your-lungs\/coronavirus-disease-covid-19\/what-you-need-to-know\/senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home\/","alt":"","author":"85","description":"","caption":"Senior woman exercising with dumbbells at home","name":"senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":7540,"date":"2020-06-04 08:04:34","modified":"2020-06-04 08:04:34","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":548,"height":365,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","medium_large-width":548,"medium_large-height":365,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","large-width":548,"large-height":365,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","1536x1536-width":548,"1536x1536-height":365,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","2048x2048-width":548,"2048x2048-height":365,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","xxlarge-width":548,"xxlarge-height":365,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","xlarge-width":548,"xlarge-height":365,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home-480x365.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":365,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home-450x365.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":365,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":266,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Senior-woman-exercising-with-dumbbells-at-home.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":548,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":365}},"youtube_video_url":""}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"wysiwyg_content_area","heading":"","content":"<h3>Look after your mental health<\/h3>\n<h4>Self-care and wellbeing<\/h4>\n<p>Self-care is about undertaking any activity that can help with your physical, emotional and mental health. It\u2019s a regular commitment to looking after yourself through helpful activities that can help to protect your wellbeing. Paying attention to what is happening to yourself both physically and emotionally can help to identify when something is affecting you adversely.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\">\n<a class=\"uk-button uk-button-brand-2 uk-button-large\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/after-your-diagnosis-title\/mental-health\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find out more<\/a><\/p>\n<h4>Find activities to bring you joy<\/h4>\n<p>Try to maintain your hobbies, even if you have to adjust the way you do them. Think about what has helped you cope with difficult moments in the past. If you feel like watching a children’s movie that brought you joy when you were a child or one that your children or grandchildren enjoy now, go ahead and watch it. Surround yourself with people and things that bring you joy, and seek out experiences that make you feel awe as much as possible. You may also want to try colouring, meditation, reading, deep breathing, knitting, learning an instrument, or taking an art or cooking class. Working with your hands can distract the emotional part of your brain.<\/p>\n","link":null},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_content","heading":"Information and support","copy":"Our Information and Support Centre team are here to assist you with your questions, provide general information and referral to support services. This free and confidential service is available Monday to Friday 8am \u2013 4.30pm (AEST). Call 1800 654 301 or email enquiries@lungfoundation.com.au.","image":{"ID":7736,"id":7736,"title":"DSC_6165-1","filename":"DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","filesize":375945,"url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/news\/covid-19-programs-and-services-update\/attachment\/dsc_6165-1\/","alt":"","author":"12","description":"Tonia","caption":"","name":"dsc_6165-1","status":"inherit","uploaded_to":7733,"date":"2020-03-19 22:53:13","modified":"2021-03-23 23:04:10","menu_order":0,"mime_type":"image\/jpeg","type":"image","subtype":"jpeg","icon":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-includes\/images\/media\/default.png","width":2560,"height":1709,"sizes":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-150x150.jpg","thumbnail-width":150,"thumbnail-height":150,"medium":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-300x200.jpg","medium-width":300,"medium-height":200,"medium_large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-768x513.jpg","medium_large-width":768,"medium_large-height":513,"large":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1024x684.jpg","large-width":1024,"large-height":684,"1536x1536":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1536x1025.jpg","1536x1536-width":1536,"1536x1536-height":1025,"2048x2048":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-2048x1367.jpg","2048x2048-width":2048,"2048x2048-height":1367,"xxlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-1920x1282.jpg","xxlarge-width":1920,"xxlarge-height":1282,"xlarge":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","xlarge-width":1280,"xlarge-height":855,"header-navigation":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-480x1080.jpg","header-navigation-width":480,"header-navigation-height":1080,"link-category":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-380x256.jpg","link-category-width":380,"link-category-height":256,"card":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-450x450.jpg","card-width":450,"card-height":450,"gform-image-choice-sm":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-sm-width":300,"gform-image-choice-sm-height":200,"gform-image-choice-md":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-md-width":400,"gform-image-choice-md-height":267,"gform-image-choice-lg":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/DSC_6165-1-scaled.jpg","gform-image-choice-lg-width":600,"gform-image-choice-lg-height":401}},"button":{"":null,"button_type":"Link Button","link":{"title":"Contact us","url":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/contact\/","target":"_blank"},"email":"","file":false,"modal_trigger":"","button_text":""}},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_posts_static","heading":"Recommended articles ","view_more_link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/news-and-advocacy\/","posts":[{"ID":5012,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2019-02-11 10:26:18","post_date_gmt":"2019-02-11 00:26:18","post_content":"<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As a never smoker, I didn\u2019t think it was possible to get lung cancer. I certainly didn\u2019t think the dry cough that didn\u2019t go away, and eventually worsened, was a sign of lung cancer. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>I am a loved wife, mother of four beautiful daughters and a Japanese language high school teacher. I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer the week of Mother\u2019s Day in 2018. When I heard the four words that would change my life forever, I felt shocked, powerless, angry and in denial, but also hopeful. After some much-needed psychological care I have adapted to my diagnosis. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As you can imagine, everyone reacted differently, both friends and family. My husband was devastated - suddenly his plans of growing old with me had evaporated. Each of my daughters responded differently as well; my oldest who is in remission from cancer, could understand and empathise. Brittany started raising money for research into lung cancer by running in the Blackmores Half Marathon, whilst my third daughter pretended everything was normal - even though it was far from that. My youngest daughter withdrew initially, she was too scared to ask me questions as she was worried about the answers. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Despite the completely overwhelming nature of a diagnosis like this, if one had to pick a time to be diagnosed with lung cancer, it would be now. Lung cancer is no longer considered untreatable. There are viable treatment options which allow you to have a good quality of life, providing real hope of treating it like any other chronic disease. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>Below are my tips to help you and your family navigate your lung cancer journey:<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Know the type of lung cancer you have<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Find out what type and stage, and if you have any mutations or biomarkers. I am on targeted treatment which is an awesome treatment option so ensure testing for tumour markers has been done. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Know your treatment options<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Ask what treatment options there are to suit your lifestyle and personal needs as this changes from person to person. Also ask if there are any clinical trials available for you to consider getting involved in. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Know the side effects<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Once you have been given a treatment ask about side effects. It\u2019s important you have the best possible quality of life, so don\u2019t wait to get help if you do experience any side effects from your treatment. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Ask questions<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It is very daunting asking questions when you are scared to hear the answers but not knowing is worse because then you worry.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Consider getting a second opinion<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>It really is common practice to get a second opinion and your specialist won\u2019t have any problems with it - ultimately, it\u2019s your life. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Know your healthcare team<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>You may be cared for by a range of health professionals during your journey, each of whom specialises in a different aspect of your treatment. I\u2019ve found it invaluable having access to a lung cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) to help me navigate my journey. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Information is power<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Research to find out as much as you can about lung cancer, making sure, however, you are reading current and reliable information such as peer-reviewed journal articles. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Talk to others, you are not alone<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Think about joining patient\/consumer online groups which give you access to worldwide information and support from people who are going through exactly what you are \u2013 also invaluable.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>Advice<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Lots of people will offer you their advice during your journey. Whilst you may not agree with everything they say, advice usually comes from a good place so just sort through it and accept what you can cope with. Alternative therapy is the most common advice I was given but be aware of the charlatans out there making money from false hope. Make sure any treatment you have is evidence-based and from reputable sites, and always run it past your specialist. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>I continue to work, look after my family and enjoy each day. My oncologist says with current treatment he can keep me alive for some years, then who knows what treatment options will be available - a lot of hope!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><em>Carolyn is a beloved wife and mother, a teacher, and lung cancer battler. <\/em><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","post_title":"Finding Hope After a Lung Cancer Diagnosis","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"finding-hope-after-a-lung-cancer-diagnosis","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-11-18 22:47:57","post_modified_gmt":"2020-11-18 12:47:57","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=article&p=5012","menu_order":0,"post_type":"article","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":1879,"post_author":"12","post_date":"2018-07-24 11:27:18","post_date_gmt":"2018-07-24 01:27:18","post_content":"<strong>Debra Sandford, Clinical Psychologist, The University of Adelaide<\/strong>\r\n\r\nA diagnosis of Pulmonary Fibrosis (PF) is just the beginning of what can be a very emotional time for both the person with PF and their loved ones. Whilst everyone processes their feelings differently, it is quite normal to feel a mixture of emotions after the initial diagnosis. Some people may feel a sense of relief at finally having an explanation for their symptoms, whilst others may be in total shock as their PF might be found by accident. Most people will experience waves of emotions that sometimes appear out of nowhere.\r\n\r\nOne of the best ways to cope with strong emotional reactions is to talk to someone about how you are feeling and the thoughts that accompany those feelings. Some people say they try to protect their loved ones by hiding their feelings and putting on a brave face. Whilst this might feel like a good thing to do, most of the research suggests that people can make their emotions worse by holding them in.\r\n\r\nLetting your loved ones know that you are feeling scared, angry, sad or vulnerable can open a constructive discussion about what you are both about to face and what the next chapter of your life holds.\r\n\r\nAs you progress through the disease course, there will be times when you feel good and have emotional positivity, and there will be times when you may have an exacerbation (worsening of symptoms) of your illness. At these times, people often find that they re-experience strong emotions and can feel quite flat and low. These feelings are part of the normal emotional reaction to an exacerbation. However, if these feelings last or increase in strength, then seeking professional help can be very useful.\r\n\r\nAnother strong emotional reaction for people is often the frustration of not being able to be as active as you once were, and the consequent restriction in the number of things you can do and achieve in a day. Some people try to push through their exhaustion, only to be floored for hours or days after. The skill of pacing is particularly helpful for dealing with this frustration and still getting things done. This means still doing things that you want to do but taking regular breaks or staggering the tasks to avoid overdoing things. This also comes with the mind-set of giving yourself permission to take a little longer. This simple concession to yourself that it is okay to be the tortoise not the hare, helps with turning frustration into acceptance.\r\n\r\nA final word of advice for managing the emotional impact that comes with having PF, is from one of the PF patients that came to see me and said, \u201cI don\u2019t know why I waited so long to talk to someone about how I was feeling. If I had, I would have coped a lot better up until now.\u201d It\u2019s okay, to let your loved ones and health professionals know you are not okay.","post_title":"Coping with the emotional impact of a diagnosis of Pulmonary Fibrosis","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"coping-with-the-emotional-impact-of-a-diagnosis-of-pulmonary-fibrosis","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-11-18 22:32:36","post_modified_gmt":"2020-11-18 12:32:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=article&p=1879","menu_order":0,"post_type":"article","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":4173,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-10-29 11:44:21","post_date_gmt":"2018-10-29 01:44:21","post_content":"Your General Practitioner (GP) is often your go-to in looking after your health together with a range of other health professionals, such as your nurse, pharmacist or physiotherapist \u2013 known as your healthcare team. It\u2019s vital to have good communication with your team to ensure you get the best quality of life and outcomes for managing your lung condition. However, with several members in your healthcare team, it can sometimes be difficult to know who the best person to talk to is, and what exactly to ask them.\r\n\r\nIt is easy to get flustered or confused when talking to your GP, especially if they use words or terms you are not familiar with. You may find it useful to write down your questions and concerns before your visit so you don\u2019t forget to ask during your appointment. It can also be helpful to take a family member or friend who you trust along with you to your appointment. If you do not understand the information your GP is giving you, don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions or ask them to explain the information again. Having a consistent health professional whom you trust and who knows you and your condition can ease some of the anxiety around your appointments.\r\n\r\nTaking notes of the signs and symptoms you are experiencing and taking this along to your appointment will enable your treatment plan or COPD Action Plan to be altered and personalised to your needs.\r\n\r\nBeing prepared for your appointment will help you feel more in control and able to learn more about your condition, treatment and management. To support this, below are some questions you might like to ask your doctor during your diagnosis and treatment journey:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>What tests will I need? What will they involve?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What are the best treatment options for me and why?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Will there be any side effects?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Will I need medications? How long will I need to take them for? What will they do?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How do I use this inhaler device?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How long before I can resume normal activity? What sort of activity is safe?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What are the signs and symptoms of a flare-up? What should I do and who should I contact?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>What support services are available in my area?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>How will my lung disease be monitored?<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Are there any clinical trials I can take part in?<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>","post_title":"Questions to ask your health professional","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"questions-to-ask-your-health-professional","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2020-11-18 22:37:39","post_modified_gmt":"2020-11-18 12:37:39","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=article&p=4173","menu_order":0,"post_type":"article","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}]},{"acf_fc_layout":"featured_posts_static","heading":"Real Stories ","view_more_link":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/stories\/","posts":[{"ID":462,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-09-06 14:01:09","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-06 04:01:09","post_content":"<h3>Imagine spending every hour of everyday being short of breath. My disease has no cure - it\u2019s progressive and kills over 3 million people every year.<\/h3>\r\nMy name is Russell Winwood also referred to as the COPD Athlete. My disease has left me with just 30% lung function \u2013 my life operates in an extreme environment.\r\n\r\nI was diagnosed with asthma when I was young, but managed to have an active childhood playing sports and doing what most kids do. In my late teens I started smoking socially. I\u2019m not sure why, as I knew it was bad for me, but continued to smoke until my late 30\u2019s. On Christmas Day in 2002 I collapsed. Too many years of not looking after myself had caught up with me in the form of a stroke \u2013 I was 36. The paramedics who attended to me when I had my stroke visited me in hospital three days later as they didn\u2019t believe I had survived. I realised it was time to change my habits. I eventually gave up the cigarettes, cut down drinking alcohol and started eating better. At the time of my stroke I was 88 kg, about 20 kg over weight. My son had just started cycling and talked me into taking it up \u2013 it was the best thing I ever did. The weight started coming off and I was feeling like a 36 year old should.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-464\" src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/Family-1024x718.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"718\" \/>\r\n\r\nA friend of mine suggested I should do a triathlon. I was hesitant because I wasn\u2019t a great swimmer, but eventually I agreed. So for the next eight years I competed in varying distances of triathlons from sprint to Half Ironman as well as a couple of ultra-marathons.\r\n<blockquote>In 2011 after noticing my training times were getting slower, exercise was getting harder and I was constantly short of breath, I took myself off to the doctors.<\/blockquote>\r\nSpirometry and lung function tests confirmed I had Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), with a FEV 1 <30% of predicted. That basically means my lungs are operating between 22-30% of their predicted capacity. I was told that I would possibly need a double lung transplant within five years. Surprisingly the scan showed that there was no major damage to my lungs from smoking. My airways had become very narrow due to years of chest infections, causing a build-up of scar tissue.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-465\" src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/GCM2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"664\" height=\"1000\" \/>\r\n\r\nBeing diagnosed with COPD was hard. I felt cheated because I had worked so hard to rebuild my health after having a stroke.\r\n<blockquote>I could have let this disease slowly suffocate the life out of me.<\/blockquote>\r\nInstead, I decided to do an Ironman event and then another, and another. Then I thought I\u2019d run marathons around the world and raise money for charities \u2013 New York, Gold Coast, London and recently Boston.\r\n\r\nI\u2019m very different to other disabled athletes who may have lost a limb or been confined to life in a wheel chair. My disability doesn\u2019t have a category in the Para Olympics or any event because people with my disability don\u2019t usually run, cycle or swim. Patients with my level of disease are generally house bound and very immobile, and many find it hard to go on.\r\n<blockquote>My disability affects the number one thing in life we cannot do without \u2013 the ability to breathe.<\/blockquote>\r\nI have found a way of living well with COPD and spend most of my days sharing my experiences with patients and respiratory professionals. I have written over a hundred articles about my disease \u2013 the highs, the lows and my strategies which allow me to live well with COPD.\r\n<blockquote>My dream is to run a marathon with one of my grandchildren, when they are old enough. My disease will never define me!<\/blockquote>\r\n<h4>Sharing your personal experience with lung disease is a compelling and inspiring way for others to learn about and cope with their diagnosis. Your story may also encourage people to identify and act on symptoms they are experiencing, which may otherwise have been ignored.<\/h4>\r\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/get-involved\/how-you-can-help\/share-your-story\/\">Share your story, here<\/a>.<\/h4>","post_title":"Russell's story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"russells-story","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2018-10-18 15:02:08","post_modified_gmt":"2018-10-18 05:02:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=story&p=462","menu_order":0,"post_type":"story","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":9639,"post_author":"85","post_date":"2020-07-28 10:37:15","post_date_gmt":"2020-07-28 00:37:15","post_content":"<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":4} -->\n<h4>As told by her mother, Susanna <\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Born at 34 weeks, Sarah was critically ill with respiratory failure and spent\u202fthree\u202flong months in intensive care\u202fbefore finally being discharged. Medical professionals had little idea what was wrong with the tiny baby.\u202fHer terrified parents, Susanna and Darren, who had two little ones at home, had no idea what the future would hold.   <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cThe first three years of Sarah's life were a whirlwind of hospital admissions and medical reviews. We have lost count of the times she has been admitted to hospital for respiratory issues.\u202fAt\u202ffive\u202fmonths, following extensive testing, which included an invasive lung biopsy at\u202fthree\u202fweeks old, Sarah was diagnosed with pulmonary interstitial glycogenosis, a type of Childhood\u202fInterstitial\u202fLung\u202fDisease (chILD).\u201d <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"align\":\"center\",\"id\":9642,\"width\":415,\"height\":311,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"className\":\"is-style-rounded\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-rounded\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/Sarah.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9642\" width=\"415\" height=\"311\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For eight years, Sarah relied on continuous oxygen and a night-time ventilator. The true impact of the rareness of Sarah\u2019s condition is far-reaching and often unseen by the outside world. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cThere is such a big gap in supportive services and financial help for both the child and the rest of the family. In Australia, we\u2019re quite fortunate that we have a good public healthcare system but the financial impact is never-ending. Sarah is fed both orally and via a gastrostomy, wears hearing aids for auditory neuropathy and struggles with joint hyper mobility syndrome, so a lot of support systems are in place to help her live her best life.\u201d <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For parents like Susanna and Darren, each day is filled with uncertainty and unique challenges. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cThere are long lasting effects we don\u2019t know yet. Sarah is vulnerable to viruses and bugs, and the isolation that comes with that affects the whole family. Our oldest child remembers Sarah being in ICU as a baby and both her siblings worry about bringing home germs. That anxiety has been a big struggle all her life. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"align\":\"center\",\"id\":6846,\"width\":329,\"height\":326,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"className\":\"is-style-rounded\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-rounded\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/11\/SarahSusanna.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6846\" width=\"329\" height=\"326\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cWhen Sarah was little and she was on oxygen, people would move away and not want their children to associate with her \u2026 but she didn\u2019t really understand. She knew that catching a cold could make her really unwell, but she didn\u2019t know what to do about it or how to protect herself.  <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cAs she gets older (Sarah started high school this year), you start to see those things having a psychological impact. We\u2019ve managed to live in a little bubble with close family and friends which allows us to monitor and safeguard Sarah\u2019s health as best we can, but as she gets older her \u2018bubble\u2019 is growing. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cWe focus on Sarah's abilities,\u202fnot diagnosis,\u202fand encourage her to try anything she puts her mind to \u2013 she is resilient, tenacious and has a great sense of humour.\u202fAt times we worry what the future may hold for Sarah but for now we delight in listening to her singing in the shower and watching her scale\u202fa\u202fwall\u202fwith\u202fease\u202fat rock climbing.\u202fSarah is simply a blessing.\u201d <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"align\":\"center\",\"id\":9645,\"width\":330,\"height\":219,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"className\":\"is-style-rounded\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-image is-style-rounded\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/IMG_5577-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-9645\" width=\"330\" height=\"219\" \/><figcaption>Credit: Jade Flores Photography<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>While there are days when the emotional toll can feel insurmountable, Susanna lives by the old saying that it takes a village to raise a child. <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cAs a parent, you take on the role of advocate and you learn to deal with it the best you can and find your tribe \u2013 Sarah has made me brave and assertive. When she was a baby there wasn\u2019t an online presence or any way to connect with other families so being able to do that now is so, so important. Sharing experiences with others who understand the unique challenges of having a child with a rare lung condition makes all the difference.\u201d <\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"textAlign\":\"left\",\"level\":4} -->\n<h4 class=\"has-text-align-left\">Caring for a child with a lung disease can feel isolating and overwhelming at times. But you are not<em> <\/em>alone\u202fas you navigate the challenges of day-to-day life and help your families to live well.\u202f\u202f\u00a0<\/h4>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:separator -->\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator\" \/>\n<!-- \/wp:separator -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph {\"fontSize\":\"large\"} -->\n<p class=\"has-large-font-size\"><strong>Download Lung Foundation Australia's free resource pack to connect with information, support and care<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:buttons {\"contentJustification\":\"center\"} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center\"><!-- wp:button {\"style\":{\"color\":{\"background\":\"#491b62\"}}} -->\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-background\" href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/patients-carers\/living-with-a-lung-disease\/childhood-lung-disease\/resources\/\" style=\"background-color:#491b62\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Download your free pack<\/a><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:button --><\/div>\n<!-- \/wp:buttons -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","post_title":"Sarah\u2019s story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"sarahs-story-2","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2021-08-19 08:08:02","post_modified_gmt":"2021-08-18 22:08:02","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=story&p=9639","menu_order":0,"post_type":"story","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":395,"post_author":"3","post_date":"2018-09-06 07:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2018-09-05 21:38:34","post_content":"<h3 class=\"lead\">Cancer is only a word but we are all afraid of it so let\u2019s beat this together.<\/h3>\r\nMy name is Sandy, I am 63 years old living in Perth, married with two children, and four grandchildren.\r\n\r\nI was diagnosed with lung cancer in July 2011, where I had carcinoid tumors in my chest and right lung. After having the annual flu jab at work, I had the flu and a cough that wouldn\u2019t go away. I went to see my doctor and was sent off for a precautionary X-ray. The X-ray revealed a mass which turned out to be tumours in my chest and lungs.\r\n\r\nWhen I first found out about my diagnosis I was numb, shocked, angry and sad all at the same time. Anyone who has been in a similar situation would know what the feelings are like. My family was also in shock. The hardest part was telling my children. Naturally as a mum you want to protect them from any bad news. My friends rallied around me and gave me lots of support. My biggest support came from my hubby Pete and my cousin Sue, who we stayed with for five months during this ordeal.\r\n\r\nMy treatment was surgery to remove the tumors as my surgeon told me it was my only option; this resulted in the loss of my right lung. Following the surgery, I had a persistent cough for about nine months and I have had to learn to breathe using one lung.\r\n\r\nMy daily life has changed. I can still do most things I used to enjoy doing but at a slower pace and I consciously have to remember to breathe. I have adjusted my lifestyle so that I am trying to walk every day and eat better.\r\n<blockquote>What I have noticed about being a lung cancer patient, is the stigma you receive towards your disease.<\/blockquote>\r\nPeople find out that I am a lung cancer patient and will immediately ask if I was a smoker.\r\n\r\nMy continued survival is mainly due to early detection, successful surgery and the follow up care I received from cancer nurses and my family.\r\n\r\n<img class=\"alignnone wp-image-396 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/20161112_182800.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" \/>\r\n\r\nMy advice is to stay focused, listen to your medical team and remain positive throughout your treatment. Don\u2019t sweat the small stuff, laugh every day, remember who you are and where you are going. Don\u2019t look back we are not going that way!\r\n\r\nWhat I would suggest to newly diagnosed patients\u00a0 is to make sure you take somebody with you to every appointment for extra support, always write down questions you want to ask and try not to stress.\r\n\r\nLung Foundation Australia was a huge help while I was dealing with my lung condition. They were always there to answers any questions and the resources and support options were all beneficial including social media posts, conferences and meeting other patients like me. Because of this, it is a privilege to be a patient advocate for such a cause, and I am definitely a better person for it.\r\n\r\nEverybody goes on a journey of some kind, but to be told you have lung cancer is a journey you don\u2019t want. It has been six years for me since I had my surgery. I have met many people along the way who I can say are friends, I still do fundraising and I also volunteer at my local hospital in the Cancer Centre. Who knows where the next six years will take me but my wonderful hubby and I are looking forward to the journey.\r\n<h4>Sharing your personal experience with lung disease is a compelling and inspiring way for others to learn about and cope with their diagnosis. Your story may also encourage people to identify and act on symptoms they are experiencing, which may otherwise have been ignored.<\/h4>\r\n<h4><a href=\"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/get-involved\/how-you-can-help\/share-your-story\/\">Share your story, here<\/a>.<\/h4>","post_title":"Sandy's story","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"sandy","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2018-10-18 15:28:29","post_modified_gmt":"2018-10-18 05:28:29","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/?post_type=story&p=395","menu_order":0,"post_type":"story","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}]}],"subtitle":"","disable_header_overlay":false},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/9842","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/85"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9842"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/9842\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13590,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/9842\/revisions\/13590"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/9908"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9843"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lungfoundation.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9842"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}