Pulmonary Fibrosis Journey: A Counselor and Fellow Patient Walks with You

by Kim Fredrickson

“Pulmonary Fibrosis Journey” is an invaluable resource for people living with pulmonary fibrosis, providing up-to-date and clinically-accurate information through the lens of a sage counselor and compassionate human-being living with the disease. With all of the misinformation out there about pulmonary fibrosis and dearth of clinicians with experience treating the disease, it can be difficult for patients to navigate the diagnosis and subsequent journey. Kim has taught me a lot about the human experience of pulmonary fibrosis over the years, and I’m glad that she will now be able to reach so many others with her powerful insights and perspective. I highly recommend her book for patients, their loved ones, and health care providers alike. ~ Brett Ley, M.D, Pulmonologist, ILD Program, University of California San Francisco Kim Fredrickson’s personal journey is well described with great sensitivity in her new book “Pulmonary Fibrosis A Counselor and Fellow Patient Walks with You.” Her extensive background as a counselor contributes to her thoughtfulness as she describes her day to day living with pulmonary fibrosis. This is a great read for patients and their caregivers who are looking for realistic information on ways to cope with pulmonary fibrosis. ~ Kathleen O. Lindell, PhD, RN, ATS, Associate Professor of Medicine, Clinical Nurse Specialist, University of Pittsburgh Dorothy P. & Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease at UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA I have been privileged to have a bird’s eye view as Kim put together this labor of love, passion, and duty. Her writing style comes from the heart with a sound wisdom that only someone who has walked the walk can provide. Her tips are practical, as they come from personal experience but comprehensive as she collaborates and seeks the opinions and experiences of others freely; with her own clinical training thrown in for good measure. I highly recommend this book to anyone dealing with PF, and their family, friends, and caregivers; as well as anyone else who may need a little pick me up! ~ Dr. Noah Greenspan, DPT, CCS, EMT-B, Board-Certified Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Clinical Specialist, Program Director of Pulmonary Wellness & Rehabilitation Center; Author, Ultimate Pulmonary Wellness Pulmonary Fibrosis A Counselor and Fellow Patient Walks with You shows patients and their loved ones how to navigate the many challenges of dealing with this diagnosis. You don't have to do this alone. Fellow patient and counselor Kim Fredrickson walks with you as you deal with the confusion, fears, questions and grief that come with this diagnosis. She gives readers up-to-date information about diagnosis, treatment, oxygen use, staying as healthy as possible, the stages of PF plus a whole lot more. Kim shows readers how to navigate the emotional, physical and spiritual challenges of dealing with this illness. You don’t have to do this alone! This book helps patients and their loved • Know what to do when first diagnosed • Learn ways to work through emotional turmoil and grief • Develop a support system and tools for self-care • Give caregivers the information and support they need • Find ways to stay as healthy as possible for as long as possible • Learn the ins and outs of using supplemental oxygen • Understand the stages of pulmonary fibrosis • Get information about treatment options • Obtain palliative care and address end-of-life issues • Address spiritual concerns Kim also helps readers learn how to be a kind and compassionate friend to themselves as they walk this difficult path.

265 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2018

Reviews

[Brandy Enlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was nothing short of life changing and amazing. My grandmother was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis a year ago, and it has been a year of frustration because there is little information out there. This author makes you feel like you are sitting with her having a glass of wine and talking. I would recommend this book specifically for someone dealing with PF as it has more emotional support vs more medical support for pulmonary health in Dr. Noah Greenspan’s book.

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

There is very little published about IPF. This gave some very valuable insights and practical tools for families. It is, however VERY religious but it is possible to take what you need from this book and personal experience. Kim clearly had a good outlook and was determined not to give up.

[John M LaJeunesse · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent perspective from a counselor and patient

I was diagnosed with IPF in January 2020 and I’ve sought out advice and assistance dealing with IPF. This is a comforting addition to my collection and an excellent resource.