Living on Your Own With CF

Moving out and away from your parents is a big step. Whether it's across town or a few states away, getting your own place takes some time getting used to. You're in charge of a lot of things now, from grocery shopping to cable bills and, most importantly, managing your CF care on your own. This may be a good time to transition to adult care. If you're moving far, finding a new CF care team may be needed. Here are some tips for living on your own^1,2:

• Find a spot to keep all your equipment and medication (such as a corner of your living room, shelf, counter, easy to reach places, etc). Clear a shelf in your refrigerator for medication that needs to be stored there
• Keep hand sanitizer in every room. Have antibacterial soap and wipes at every sink*
• Keep paper towels and tissues on hand. Have extras stored in the hallway or linen closet*
• Budgeting isn't fun, but almost everyone has to do it. Make a list of all your expenses, figure out what you have left over, and go from there. Sticking to a budget will pay off in the long run and help keep you on track with medical expenses*
• Most importantly, go out and have fun. Mental health impacts physical health. Doing the things you love in your spare time will help keep you healthy and happy*

What I've learned from living on my own^†

Conor Reid is a 19-year-old college student with CF who recently completed his freshman year on campus. In between acing his exams and making new friends, Conor learned a thing or two about living on his own:

• Stay organized. Have a binder, calendar, dry erase board, or mobile app with the following:
  • All your medications, doses, and when you should take them
  • Insurance contact information
  • Copies of health insurance cards
  • Names and contact information of your CF care team, local pharmacy, mail-order pharmacy, etc
• Get into a routine. This will help you stay on track with treatments and taking medicine
• If you're moving in with a roommate, be open with them about CF. Explain the treatments you do every day and answer any questions they may have. The more open you are, the more comfortable it will be
• Clean! Clean! Clean! Staying on top of dishes and dusting isn't fun, but will help you stay healthy and keep your place germ-free

*Source: Siobhan Barry-Reid - Parent of a child with CF.

^†Source: Liz Christ - Parent of a child with CF.