Working Life: A man rang me in his last few days of life to say thanks for all the help during his illness

Ciara Scallan is senior respiratory physiotherapist with the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association

Ciara Scallan, senior respiratory physiotherapist, Irish Lung Fibrosis Association. Picture: Gareth Chaney

“I always had a strong interest in healthcare. I injured my ankle, aged 17, playing camogie. As part of my rehabilitation, I attended physiotherapy and found myself becoming particularly interested in what I was doing and why. The experience sparked my interest in physiotherapy, and I was lucky to study at Trinity College.

“I currently work with the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association (ILFA), where I run a virtual pulmonary rehabilitation programme for people living with pulmonary fibrosis, a progressive lung condition where the lung tissue becomes scarred, resulting in increasingly stiff lungs and impaired respiratory function. The programme is funded and supported by the HSE.

“We assess patients’ suitability for the programme and deliver exercise classes online, allowing patients to attend without having to leave home.

“Patients with the condition face significant barriers to attending centre-based rehabilitation, such as long travel distances, oxygen requirements, fatigue, reduced mobility, and the physical demands of travelling to and from classes. 

"The online format allows them access to this much-needed service. The ILFA also provides an interstitial lung disease nurse-led telephone advice line and a new psychological grants scheme for patients and family members, funded and supported by the HSE.

“A moment that will always stay with me was the gratitude of a man with pulmonary fibrosis who rang my colleagues and me in his last few days of life to thank us for our support during his illness.

The phone call was one of the most difficult but also one of the most touching I have ever received. Despite everything he was going through, he had taken time to contact us and express his gratitude. 

I will never forget that conversation. It demonstrated the kind of person he was and reminded me that the impact we have as physiotherapists extends far beyond the physical aspects of rehabilitation.

“Outside of work, sport has always been a passion. I play hockey and played camogie for many years. I also love reading and travelling.”

• Throughout Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness month this September, the ILFA and the HSE are raising awareness of the condition and advocating for patients and families affected. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms such as persistent dry cough, breathlessness, or fatigue, support and information are available. Learn more about lung fibrosis, upcoming events, and support services at ilfa.ie