Our Pulmonary Fibrosis Community
What Psoriatic Arthritis Did to My Lungs
Around the age of 50, I woke up in the morning and could hardly move; everything was swollen and it hurt. I went to my GP and he said its arthritis and gave me 1 pill a day of Celebrex. I tried that for about 3 months and I was not getting any better and in this...
Honouring Linda (Clarke) Mcdonald
My sister Linda has IPF. Linda is a member of the Clarke family in Alberta and has been a huge support to the family during all of our struggles with IPF. She is a wife, mom, auntie, and a great sister to me. I admire her strength and courage. Linda supports our...
Life Happens
I am sharing my story because we need to talk about IPF . At first after being diagnosed it was on my mind when I woke and around the clock. I had to get my head around it. It now has been 1 1/2 years learning to deal with it. To protect myself from COVID and not...
So Far So Good
Approximately three years ago I started to experience shortness of breath. I was a very active person teaching martial arts, biking, running, kayaking etc. Spent quite a few visits going to my family doctor and then to the lung specialist Dr. Wilcox at St Pauls...
My journey with IPF
In 2014, I had a cold but the cough wouldn't go away. It kept getting worse until if I inhaled, I coughed. Dr could hardly examine me. I was sent to a specialist who did a Pulmonary Function Test. I waited for results, but none came. I didn't know they had lost the...
Two Brothers
We had never heard of IPF (Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis later changed to Pulmonary Fibrosis Secondary to Sjogren’s Syndrome) until my husband David was diagnosed with it in 2013. We set out to learn as much as we could about the disease. David’s brother Brian on the...
A Celebration of Life – Barbara Ann Barr Haylock
January 31, 1951 - February 10, 2021 Spouse; Malcolm David Haylock, July 25, 1970 – February 1980 December 2000 – February 10, 2022 Barbara was everything to many people. She was a passionate person, who often brought families together, but also at times...
Familial IPF
Our family has had more than our share of IPF. Mom was diagnosed with IPF in 2001 and passed away at home in March 2006. In October 2006 my Dad was diagnosed with IPF and passed away in December 2010. Dad lived with me until he passed away. My Mom's sister was...
My Journey
My name is Dale Smith. My journey started in 2012 when I had lung cancer and had an upper lob removed in October (my 50th birthday). A year later I was diagnosed with IPF. I was told my life expectancy was about 5 years. It’s now been 8 years, and 6 months ago, it...
Winnipeg Jets light up for Pulmonary Fibrosis
Our Winnipeg Jets light up for Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness
Winnipeg Forks lights up for Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
On Sept 20 the Forks lit up the WINNIPEG sign in recognition of Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Cycling at Halifax Waterfront
John Dennis, 76 1/2 former pulmonary fibrosis patients who received single lung transplant in March 2021, cycling to raise awareness for Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation with his Mission Possible.
Calgary Tower Lit Up
Photos of the Calgary tower from September 18th - all red and blue!
Mission Possible
In the last two weeks I have ridden another 100K and walked 18K. I van now say I am healed from my rib injuries and my torn groin and I am feeling great. I had a very great six month checkup this week and Dr. M. Chiasson was very pleased with my condition and...
Jackie Clarke’s Pep Talk
Jackie Clarke's morning motivational speech!
Achille Abbondanza – A Story of Resilience
The inspiring story of Achille Abbondanza. "Cycling became my second and favourite therapy." Achille Abbondanza was diagnosed in 2015 with Pulmonary Fibrosis and has cycled almost 18.000 km during...
Cape Breton’s Big Fiddler – Lit up for Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness
A special thanks to Pat Popwell, Support Group Leader from Cape Breton for getting the Big Fiddler light up for Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month!
Calgary TELUS Science Spark Center Lit Up Saturday
A Message From Saskatoon’s Mayor Clark
Charlie Clark, Mayor of Saskatoon, declares September 2021 Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month.
A Message From Calgary’s Mayor Nenshi
A message from Calgary's Mayor Nenshi: Below is the proclamation from Calgary's Mayor Nenshi that September 2021 is Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month!
Rob and Maggie run/ride in support for CPFF awareness
Rob was diagnosed with IPF in 2011 and has figured out ways to adapt to living with the disease. He bought a recumbent trike and attaches his POC on the back of it so he can ride/run with his best...
Halifax Proclamation
I met with Mayor Mike Savage, Mayor of Halifax this morning and we had a good conversation and the Mayor signed a proclamation declaring September Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month in Halifax. Thank you so much Mayor Mike Savage and your staff.
Winnipeg PF Support Group
Past pictures of our support group blowing bubble together for PF. Laughter and friendship at our Christmas luncheon.
John Dennis: On The Road Again
On the 10th of August I was doing a 50K ride and as I hit the 26 K I felt my left groin tear. I got off my bike and could not walk without extreme pain and difficulty. I got back on my bike as I had to get back to my car. While peddling I was okay but once I got back...
My IPF Journey to Palliative Care and Back Again
I was first diagnosed with IPF in 2010. Things were going reasonably well until 2018 when my wife and I took a trip to Europe to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary. We were on a river cruise and each day involved an excursion with a fair amount of walking. As the...
John Dennis: Mission Possible
Just an update as I have started to ride and record kilometers on the Bike Trails of Nova Scotia. On Tuesday, I did an interview with CTV Live at Five and then rode 25 K to Tantallon. As I got off my bike for a rest and to talk about Hope Breaths Here, I felt my left...
Charlie Clark, Mayor of Saskatoon Declares September Pulmonary Fibrosis Month
Mayor Charlie Clark is doing his part to help raise awareness for pulmonary fibrosis. The City of Saskatoon has declared September pulmonary fibrosis month to help create more understanding around the devastating impact of this little known disease. Help us raise awareness, hope, and funds for people living with pulmonary fibrosis.
Terry Hardy: Together IPF can be beaten
A tribute to Terry Hardy, founder of Niagara IPF support group. "Together IPF can be beaten!!" Many thanks from all those whom you assisted during your journey with this very difficult disease.
Thanks to My Husband and More….
A huge thank you to Abbie & the Clarke family for organizing the walk for PF. Thanks to my husband Ken for his unwavering support over the last 46 years, over 11 years with PF. I've also had support from our daughter Kelly, Todd, Ben & Avery. Our son Dean,...
This is How I Will Always Remember My Mom
Thank you to everyone who lives their lives to help others. This is how I will always remember my mom. In loving memory of Eldeen Mary Fellos (MOM) LOVE. - Karen Laurie
Larry loved…..
Larry loved politics, books, Red Dwarf, bridges, airplanes, single malt scotch, and useless trivia....
A Tribute to Jackie and Cathy
A tribute to Jackie who continues to work hard with the Clarke family for CPFF. And a special tribute to Cathy who courageously fought a tough battle - Bev Isabey
Murray James Closs: Strong, Courageous and Made the World a Better Place
Murray James Closs 1947 - 2017 You will forever be remembered as a strong and courageous man who made this world and ours a better place XOXO Missing you every day. - Your wife Judith and daughter Jennifer
Albert Campbell: Proud That He Was My Dad
My dad Albert Campbell was always so proud of his family and I'm proud he was my dad.
Marg: A Wonderful Role Model and a Very Kind and Loving Person
My beautiful mother, Marg. 1930-2016. A wonderful role model and a very kind and loving person. Miss you every day. - Carol Taylor
Richard J. Martin: You Lived Your Life With Principles, Courage, Determination and Unconditional Love
My tribute to my husband Richard J. Martin. You lived your life with purpose, principles, determination, and unconditional love for your family. I miss you every day. October 1, 2018. - Moyra Martin
Donna: You Lived Your Life With Faith and Courage
Our beautiful Mom, Donna 1950-2019. You lived your life with faith and courage. Always thinking of others before yourself. Your servant heart touched so many lies and your unconditional love for family will never be forgotten. Miss you so much! - Kari Boyes
Dad : Still miss him greatly
Thanks to all those who participated in the Clarke Walk for PF. Your support makes this event the success it is. From all of us at the Clarke family - thank you. It was 13 years ago that my dad passed way from PF. Still miss him greatly.
Shelley & Rayyan : True Warriors
This is a tribute to our daughter Shelley and grandson Rayyan who battle PF every day. They are true PF warriors. - Lynda Macdonald
A Tribute to Cathy: We miss her everyday
This is a tribute for our sister Cathy who lost her battle with PF five years ago. She's in this photo with Darren Clarke. We miss her every day. - Lynda Macdonald
Barbara Morrison: A tribute to a beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.
Barbara was a loyal advocate for the CPFF, the extended PF community, as well as palliative and hospice care. Forever with us.
Joseph Robichaud: An infectious smile and generous heart.
My husband Joseph Robichaud lived with Pulmonary Fibrosis and journey to receive a lung transplant. The disease progressed beyond the availability of a match. Remembered as kind, a loving hard worker, and always there for family and friends.
Abbie Clarke’s Great Grandma Tess
This is Abbie's great Grandma Tess (lost to PF in the '80s). This is where our Clarke story started and as you can see the disease has been around far too long. Great Grandma/ Grandma/ Mother/ Wife/Friend - she could spread her love around like no other. She is very...
Peter Kennedy: Love all your girls
Peter, the imprint you left on our lives will always be in our hearts. ???? Love all your girls. ????
Brendan: Every picture tells a story
This picture was taken St. Patricks Day 2016, when my husband Brendan was diagnosed IPF. He smiled right to the end of that journey August 30, 2019. Brave man taken far too soon by a disease most know nothing about.
John Etherington: Perseverance
John Etherington (1944-2020) fought bravely for 4 ½ years. He did not let shortness of breath keep him from walking our dog, Sophi. She led him on many near disasters and tip overs but he persevered. He is sadly missed by his entire family including Sophi.
The Hamilton IPF Group Blowing Bubbles at Hamilton City Hall
This is our 3rd year attending the Hamilton City Sign being illuminated blue and red to build awareness and promote IPF by blowing bubbles.
Deena Eliosoff: My amazing mother and her incredible perseverance
In 2010, my mother, Deena Eliosoff, was diagnosed with Systemic Scleroderma which gave her Pulmonary Fibrosis. Her health deteriorated rapidly, to the point where she would be stuck in the hospital for weeks, if not months at a time on a semi-regular basis. I would...
Leo: My Resilient Soulmate
My husband Leo was diagnosed with IPF in 2014. His lovely mum Louisa was diagnosed in 2007 with IPF and died in 2015. Our family like so many , know too well the reality of this disease. We appreciate the work that the CPFF has been doing to build the knowledge,...
William (Bill) Jamieson: He was truly involved with every one of his children
My name is Joan-Marie Schoen. I live in the wonderful city of Calgary. I want to help find a cure for pulmonary fibrosis. This is my story and I tell it in loving memory of my father, William (Bill) Jamieson. 1954-2011
Honoring my amazing mom & her 2 sisters
My mom, Florence, was THE strongest, toughest, most loving and selfless person I know. We lost her sister, Linda first, to pulmonary fibrosis. Then mom was diagnosed & we lost her in 2016. We all miss them & think of them daily! Then their oldest sister,...
Arie Mast: Remembering all the laughter
Next week will be a year since Dad passed away from IPF and his laughter is so greatly missed. He persevered with IPF and never stopped adding a little humor to cherished time with family and friends. I am thankful for all the medical and support workers that helped...
Arie: A Brave Dutchman
Arie lived bravely with IPF for almost 5 years. He was so proud of his Dutch heritage and was excited to receive Dutch treats for Christmas,
Tribute to my Mum
My mum was diagnosed with IPF in April 2016 and I just lost her on September 11, 2020. I'm crying as I write this because our relationship was so strained and challenging but this past 10 months while my husband and I were her caregivers she had definitely mellowed...
Martha Hardy: a real trooper!
We find it amazing how Martha continues to portray a cheerful and positive attitude; her choice to surmount many challenges, and the way she cares so much for others. Love from your "First Wives" group in Nanaimo
Forever Strong: Margaret and Bruce Hill
My parents, Margaret and Bruce Hill, both passed from IPF. My Mom's sister is currently battling IPF. Mom passed in March 2006 and after looking after Mom, Dad was diagnosed a year after her passing and he passed in December 2010. Mom passed in my arms and Dad lived...
Beat the odds
This is my dad, my hero. He has beaten all the odds, at 11 years post lung transplant he’s lived to travel the world, walk me down the aisle and watch his beautiful grand-children come into this world and spoil them with so much love. This transplant may have saved...
Gordon Parker: My Dad Was Strong Until He Wasn’t
Gordon Parker was diagnosed with IPF in April 2013 and passed away in June 2014. My Dad was the first in our family to have IPF so when he was diagnosed, we had no idea what we were all dealing with. My Dad also had Alzheimer’s so our struggle was difficult. Our...
My Mother the Warrior: Heather
My mother Heather was diagnosed with IPF about 5 years ago. She passed away in August this year. I watched this vicious disease literally take her breath away but I have never known a stronger woman in my life. She taught me everything I know and fought this disease...
Barry Lang: Workout
I was diagnosed with PF a few years ago. I had mobility and breathing problems. I started going to the gym 3 times a week and I feel big improvements in both. Just turned 82
Lloyd Reid: A Constant Positive Outlook On Life
We remember you for your constant positive outlook on life- no matter how you were feeling. Missed and loved beyond measure. Xo
Thelma Thibodeau: JUST DO IT!
I have been living with rheumatoid arthritis since 1981 and Sjögren’s Syndrome for the last ten years or so. While enjoying some golf in the summer of 2017, I did notice that I could hear myself breathing, was tiring easily and would start looking for a bench to sit...
Eric Celentano: Surviving IPF
Five years after diagnosis of IPF in 2013 received double lung transplant at UHN in late 2018. A good quality of life has been returned and I am so grateful.
The Love of My Life: Brenda Lucy Hickey
My wife Brenda Lucy Hickey passed away on June 3, 2020, @ 6:45 am. Brenda was diagnosed with IPF in 1994. Over the years with this terrible terrible disease, Brenda was strong and never complained. On June 3, 2020, sitting in her favorite chair with her favorite...
Wally: A Teacher of Bravery, Love, and Humour
In memory of my husband, Wally, a teacher of bravery, love, and humour ... you are so missed.
Rob Garbutt: Living With IPF
After being a very athletic person my whole life, it has become somewhat of a challenge to learn to adapt to being able to only walk short distances with oxygen. I am hoping that with my potential lung transplant I may regain some of that adventure I used to have....
Janette MacDonald: I wish everyone who has this disease good fortune.
I was diagnosed with IPF approximately 10 years ago. I believe that I had this disease for a few years before then. I've decided to let nature take its course. I wish everyone who has this disease good fortune. - Janette MacDonald
Anila Khan: When two worlds collide
I had been working for a few years as a respiratory therapist. During that time, I had met with and helped treat people with pulmonary fibrosis. It was a topic we didn't cover in great depth during school and my knowledge about this disease was somewhat limited. My...
Robert Davidson You’d Be So Proud of CPFF Today
Robert you would be so proud of CPFF today.
Abbie & Darren Clarke: Let’s Walk Back Across Canada For Pulmonary Fibrosis
Two weeks into global pulmonary fibrosis month and Canadians from coast to coast are showing their support for pulmonary fibrosis. We’ve walked 6,818 kilometers across Canada and now we’re walking back. Walk a little or a lot and donate now to help us find a cure. Tune in to Abbie and Darren Clarke as they share words of encouragement from Calgary, Alberta.
Greetings from Honourable Christine Elliott, Minister of Health
Honourable Christine Elliott, Minister of Health sends her greetings to Canadians for global pulmonary fibrosis month and explains why now more than ever, it’s important to support people living with this disease. Join CPFF’s Hope Breathes Here 2020 virtual events and let’s raise awareness, hope, and funds for people living with pulmonary fibrosis.
Dr. Alyson Wong, MD, Respirologist and CPFF Robert Davidson Fellowship Award Winner
Dr. Alyson Wong, MD shares how she has furthered her education and been able to make a difference, thanks to Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Robert Davidson Award, and why she chose to study Interstitial Lung Disease at the University of British Columbia.
Dr. Jolene Fisher, Respirologist: Working to Improve Healthcare for Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients
Dr. Jolene Fisher, MD, respirologist and clinical investigator with the University Health Network in Toronto, Ontario, shares what her fellowship at the University of Toronto taught her about patients with pulmonary fibrosis and their families and how her research aims to improve healthcare policy, healthcare delivery, and the individual health of patients suffering from pulmonary fibrosis.
Jacqui Bowick-Sandor Faces Life Post-transplant With Amazing Grace
Four years ago, double-lung transplant recipient Jacqui Bowick-Sandor ran a Facebook contest to name her two new lungs. The winner suggested Amazing and Grace. The names could also be used to describe this brave 55-year-old from Smith Falls, Ontario, as she faced life with IPF and then the ongoing challenges following her transplant.
Nik Stauskas, Canadian Basketball Player Speaks Out For Pulmonary Fibrosis
Canadian Basketball player Nik Stauskas shares his family connection to IPF, and how it’s motivated him to join the fight against pulmonary fibrosis. Join Nik and participate in CPFF’s Hope Breathes Here 2020 virtual events to help raise awareness, hope, and funds for people living with pulmonary fibrosis.
Dr. Tiffany Winestone, Respirologist: Reducing Wait Times for Pulmonary Fibrosis Patients in BC
Dr. Tiffany Winestone is a respirologist in Vancouver, British Columbia. Dr. Winestone has done 2 years of extra subspecialty training in the area of pulmonary fibrosis. Hear how Dr. Winestone is reducing wait times and providing better care for pulmonary fibrosis patients.
Dr. Daniel Marinescu, Respirologist: Pulmonary Fibrosis Research and Diagnosis
Dr. Daniel Marinescu is a respirologist in Vancouver, British Columbia. He received a clinical and research fellowship at St. Paul’s Hospital with the support of funding from the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. When he first started his clinical training in respirology, he was taken aback by how devasting a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis is, often carrying with it a prognosis worse than many cancers. Hear why it is often difficult to make a diagnosis…
Official Acknowledgements for Pulmonary Fibrosis Month
Canadian Government Officials provide proclamations, declarations, and greetings for Pulmonary Fibrosis Month. Read Official Acknowledgements.
Greetings from Honourable John Horgan, Premier of British Columbia
Honourable John Horgan, Premier of British Columbia extends warm greetings to British Columbians participating in activities to mark Pulmonary Fibrosis Month in Canada throughout September. Read Premier Horgan's greeting
Jackie Clarke
Jackie Clarke, aunt to Abbie Clarke, a remarkable young woman and a driving force behind the first national CPFF Clarke Walk for Pulmonary Fibrosis, shares her family history with the disease and urges the public to do the right thing and protect our most vulnerable.
Greetings from Honourable Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan
Honourable Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan sends his greetings to Canadians for global pulmonary fibrosis month.
Greetings from Peter Bevan-Baker, Leader of PEI’s Green Party
Peter Bevan-Baker, Leader of the PEI Green Party, sends his greetings from the shores of Prince Edward Island.to Canadians for global pulmonary fibrosis month.
Greetings from Ryan Meili, Leader of the Saskatchewan NDP
Ryan Meili, Leader of the Saskatchewan NDP, sends his greetings to Canadians for global pulmonary fibrosis month.
Greetings from Wab Kinew, Leader of the Manitoba NDP
Wab Kinew, Leader of the Manitoba NDP, sends his greetings to Canadians for global pulmonary fibrosis month.
Rayyan Aldosary
Rayyan Aldosary was diagnosed at age one with pulmonary fibrosis and is currently on oxygen 24/7. Pulmonary fibrosis limits many of the activities he can participate in but it sure doesn’t limit his SPIRIT!
Greetings From Naheed Nenshi, Mayor of Calgary
Naheed Nenshi, Mayor of Calgary kicks off CPFF’s Hope Breathes Here 2020 virtual events with a video greeting.
John Dennis: I Self Advocate
I am inspired by the Clarke family to help raise awareness, funds and to log miles in the virtual walk across Canada. In 2016 my younger brother died of complications of PF and no one in the family at that time knew he had the disease except his wife. When I went to...
Robert Davidson
Heather and Robert Davidson had an opportunity to talk about an advance care plan when Robert underwent a lung transplant in 2009. “We knew there were risks with the surgery and rejection afterwards, but we chose to focus on a positive outcome, which we were fortunate...
Dr. Kerri Johannson
Respirologist Dr. Kerri Johannson at the University of Calgary has been advocating for years for improved funding and better access to oxygen therapy for her patients. “Some of my patients are basically suffocating, then I have to subject them to tests to prove they...
Melissa Sulpher
Melissa Sulpher, 38 years old, is not your typical person living with pulmonary fibrosis. Most are diagnosed, after several medical consultations, when they are in their 60s. Melissa’s case took quite some time to pin down, especially because of her age. Pregnant…
Barbara Barr
Like too many others, Barbara Barr-Haylock’s convoluted route to a diagnosis of IPF took several years. After three lung infections in five years, and visits to a cardiologist, a gastroentologist and a local respirologist, who told her she had “sensitive lungs,” an...
#HopeBreathesHere
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