@jweisser, Welcome to this forum. You'll find information and support here that is not available anywhere else in such a convenient package. I was diagnosed with bronchiectasis in 1997 -- had never heard of it. It's taken many years and lots of independent research and lots of personal experience for me to feel that I know what it is, what it means in my life and in my future, and how to best protect myself. People around me have no conception of the condition, and I've had to work with a couple of pulmonologists who understood it less than I do! Fortunately, I'm with a knowledgeable, proactive pulmonologist now, but you can't assume that "the doctor knows." Arm yourself with information. Plenty of it can be found right here. You will be empowered by it.