I took meds for 18 months before I was "completely cured". Then after 2 months off meds I had NTM again. My doctor said it wasn't from the original infection but a new exposure, even though it was the same organism as before (M.intracellulare spp. chimerae). He also agreed with me that I most likely picked it back up from the same exposure as before, be it water, soil, or whatever. Take-home message, we can't completely let our guard down around these danged bugs.

We're in the "watchful waiting" phase now. These little suckers are slow growing and if I keep up with my AWC, good diet and exercise, and positive attitude, who knows? I may kick it myself without ever having to take meds again. It's possible!