It takes a little extra effort to travel not only with CF but while being on the transplant list but it is possible. You can’t travel or live too far if you are currently active on the list. You have about a 3 hour radius. You need to contact your transplant coordinator, notify them you will be out of the immediate area, and make sure you are available at all times whether it is a land line or cell phone. There have been only a couple of times where that has prevented me from going somewhere. Although cell phone towers are expanding there are still some areas that I cannot receive service. I was suppose to stay at a friend’s cabin in northern Minnesota but could not get a signal on my phone so we had to leave and stay somewhere else. Just part of the deal.

I was lucky enough to travel to Fargo yesterday for 1 night only. Once in a while, if it’s for a short time and my coordinator approves it I can go a little further then 3 hours. I mean a little, 3.5 hours. There was a special showing at the Fargo film festival “The Power of Two”. An inspiring documentary featuring twin sisters living with CF that have both received double lung transplants. I feel so fortunate I was able to attend.

Packing is another thing even if it is just for an overnight as you can see in the photos above. I have many medications, devices, tubing, cleaning supplies, accessories, and oxygen tanks that have to be counted for. Forgetting one thing can be enough to have to turn around and come home. I have come up with a checklist which is very helpful. I also have to make sure all my equipment is working properly. Another thing I have to consider while using oxygen is that I have enough with me. Being stranded by weather, car troubles, or staying longer than anticipated are all things to think about.

I don’t travel lightly (or far) with all my equipment and it takes extra effort to prepare but it is possible. I feel while waiting for “the call” I can’t put my life on hold. As long as I am feeling well enough to get out a little I darn well will!