Hello,
I am 80 years old and was diagnosed with MAC/Bronchiectasis two years ago and am a patient at NJH. I tried the Big 3 last year and after 6 weeks decided I wanted quality rather than quantity of life. The drugs made me feel worse than the actual diseases. I have hemoptysis and a fungal infection too.

Every 6 months I visit my doctor at NJH and my last visit showed my MAC to be stable but the fungus has worsened -- but I wouldn't know it otherwise. I have discussed with my doctor my decision to "let nature takes its path," which just means all of us will most likely die with the disease as opposed to dying of it, whether we are treated or not.

I have decided to enjoy my life. I use the Aerobika twice a day (no saline or other as they cause my hemoptysis), walk 1-2 miles daily, have been on a Mediterranean diet for 20+ years, and spend my days learning new skills Adobe provides for me through their Illustrator. I read a lot and have authored a children's book, write poetry and prose, and am enjoying other art creations.

In other words, I keep busy and refuse to let the diseases prevent me from enjoying my life. My mother lived to 101 and my father to 96, although neither had these diseases. I will attempt to add more years to my life -- with the understanding that pneumonia or Covid or other lung related viruses may prevent me from doing so.

Each of us can make decisions we feel is best for our own quality of life, and I wish you the best as you make your own decision(s) moving forward!