I have been a PA since 1976. I first became interested in the PA profession back in 1969-1970 while I was an Army medic. I really enjoyed being a medic, and wanted to continue working in medicine. While still in the Army, I started looking into different areas of the medical field. I heard about the PA profession and looked into it further. I applied to several programs. At that time there were only a few to consider. I finally selected Alderson - Broaddus College, because at that time they were the only program that offered a BS degree. I was accepted and started in September 1972, and graduated in May 1976. My first job was at Deaconess Hospital in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where I worked for the Department of Surgery. Since then I have worked in several different settings including 5 years in Trauma in the mid 1980's. In 2004 I was diagnosed with Idopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) This is a gradual, progress scarring of the lung tissue and an eventula inability to transfer oxygen to the blood stream. Treatment options are limited and ineffectual. Medications treating lung disease are in the experimental phase, and there are no treatments available to reduce, prevent or stop the fibrotic progress. Supplemental oxygen may improve the quality of life and exercise capacity and lung transplants are an option for some patients.