What is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD)? Author Samantha Bowick has written articles revolving around important questions and information about A1AD. She also wrote Living with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency with her mom Marie Bowick, who is an A1AD patient. Their new book, available now, offers the most up-to-date information on this illness.
Ways of Coping with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (A1AD)
More than 100,000 individuals in the U.S. suffer with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (A1AD), a rare genetic, incurable disease which causes the liver to not produce a certain protein which protects and keeps the lungs functional. What are some ways to cope with this disease?
It can be extremely stressful and difficult to cope with being diagnosed with A1AD as well as everything else that comes with having the illness. Coping mechanisms which may be helpful while battling this disease include:
- Yoga/meditation/exercising (when able to due to breathing)
- Taking time for yourself when you feel run down
- Writing in a journal every day
- Reading something that gives you peace of mind (a favorite book, the Bible, inspirational stories)
- Going to counseling/seeing a psychiatrist
- Socializing with friends; avoid isolating yourself
- Talking to others who have A1AD
- Asking for help when you need it
- Pick up hobbies that don’t require a lot of physical exertion (painting, coloring, arts and crafts, sewing, etc.)
- Eating healthier (when possible)
- Taking relaxing baths
- Connecting with people who have always been there for you
For more articles and information on A1AD, please click here.
Samantha Bowick has a Master of Public Health degree from Liberty University. She received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Administration at Columbia Southern University. She is devoted to using her education and experiences to advocate for women who suffer with endometriosis and other chronic illnesses. She is the author of Living with Endometriosis. She currently lives in Aiken, South Carolina.
Marie H. Bowick has lived in Aiken, South Carolina her entire life, and was diagnosed with A1AD at 46 years old. She has been married for 27 years and is the mother of two daughters. She worked in manufacturing for 15 years and then became a caregiver to her mother, father, and youngest brother.
