Hi Barbara! First of all God bless you for your ability to grow up to almost 82 years young. That’s perseverance for sure!! Yes, I taught school for 43 years) k and 1 and did my best to parent 10 children with my husband of 54 years. He only wanted one child !! Raising ten is easier than one I think - they entertain each other. Now we are almost at 16 grandbabies and soon to be first great grand baby! We actually have been very blessed. Nine out of ten gave us no trouble. Number ten has been a bit of a challenge. Lots of perseverance needed for that one!! I was diagnosed by my son in law ( an obgyn ) who was worried about my symptoms. That was my last year of teaching.(2014). I knew something was wrong so that was at least validation. You are kind to use the word perseverance. I’ve screamed. I’ve cried. I’ve had more than one pity party for sure. But here’s the thing Barbara as I’m sure you know. There are way worse things in life than this. We have all suffered greatly. The meds were a real challenge for me. I am a positive person and they did not make me feel positive one single bit. And I was scared to death!!Red/orange urine is scary!! I did persevere - and it wasn’t easy. But I have learned so much about myself and the whole concept of suffering. I always try to put one foot in front of the other as much as possible, trust the good God because he has the bigger picture - and never give up!!!! At your age I don’t know. I didn’t go on medication till after I retired. I would not have been able to continue . Some people do ok. My bronchiectasis has gotten worse so I have to nebulize twice daily and take Levoquin prophylactically . Maybe when you are told to take the meds you will find you actually feel better. It is your choice. Listen to your body and its infinite wisdom. You will make the right decision for you! God bless you real well. ( Irene 5)