Rest & Renewal

Sunday, it's known as being the day set aside for rest, relaxation, and renewal.  But what happens when that rest and renewal are so hard to come by?

The complications associated with Cystic Fibrosis can cause severe insomnia and fatigue, making physical and mental renewal even more difficult.

What contributes to CF related insomnia?

 - Decreased lung function

 - Inflammation in the lungs, airways, sinuses   making breathing difficult, let alone sleeping

- Decreased Blood Oxygen levels

- Side effects of medications

- Cough

- Pain

For someone with CF, the basic tasks of everyday life such as mere breathing take significantly more energy, making restorative rest even more crucial.  Exhaustion and fatigue compromise an already weak immune system and the ability to fight infection.

Hello, my name is Ashley, and I am a CF insomniac, and I would do anything for a night of blissful sleep.  I dread the night, playing host to a struggle of wills between my exhausted mind and body.   By 3 a.m. I am already trying to prepare myself mentally for the next day: knowing the exhaustion just continues to compound with every waking moment.   What do I do when I find myself exhausted and becoming more and more so?  Push even harder.  I am renewed by the magnificent people in my life, the opportunity to live a life with no regrets, and each beautiful breath that passes through my lips.

What renews you?

I am so thankful for every waking moment, and I have a lot of them!  Love to you all!