Growing up I didn't let cystic fibrosis get in my way. I enjoyed most everything others did. Fishing, bowling, and baseball have always been a part of my life. Living an active life, I feel, has kept me away from many of the difficult challenges my disease presents.

My first hospital stay didn't happen until I was 47. I had pneumonia and they discovered a large tracheal diverticulum. It's basically a pocket that collects the same infections as my lungs. My first dose of intravenous (IV) antibiotics worked wonders on my pneumonia. I am now 55 and dealing with the real challenges of CF. I recently started using oxygen due to the decline in my lung function. My care team discussed a lung transplant with me. I have chosen not to have the procedure done.

My decision not to have a lung transplant was a difficult one, but the right one for me. My reasons include the medical expenses and drug costs that would last the rest of my life. I refuse to leave debt to my loved ones and live a longer life but have no money to enjoy it. Another part of my decision is my tracheal diverticulum issue. A transplant wouldn't include the removal of it and bacteria could leak from it to my new lungs, which would most likely be a big problem.

The final deterrent for new lungs was how going through the whole process and learning about the requirements of qualifying for transplant made me feel. I went to bed stressed and woke up stressed as well. I was miserable until I made my decision.

I'm at peace with my choice not to have a transplant and my family supports and understands all of my reasoning. One of my favorite doctors told me he respected my decision and would do all he could to keep me going with the lungs I have.

I have lived a blessed life. My wife and I have six awesome grandkids. I have achieved everything I've wanted in my bowling journey. I have had multiple perfect 300 games, bowling titles, and awards in my 45 years of bowling. I have also been on championship baseball teams, gone sky diving, and even owned winning racehorses.

I choose to enjoy the memories I have and continue to create something new each day because none of us are guaranteed tomorrow.

Join the conversation on Facebook.