“Live in the now.”
Born in Chesire, Connecticut with five older brothers and sisters, I was diagnosed with CF at the age of 2. Growing up, I had a normal, active, childhood with the “usual” cleanouts—playing sports like baseball, golf and hockey in high school. When I began attending the University of Connecticut in the late eighties, I found adjusting to college life very difficult. I was very private about having cystic fibrosis and avoided telling my friends, so as not to be treated differently.
During my first semester at school, I got pneumonia. My lung collapsed three times during my second semester, resulting in one of my lungs glued to the inside of my chest—in an attempt to prevent a future collapse. However, my other lung collapsed, forcing me to miss a full year of school at UConn and return home.
Although it was a struggle, spending the year at home turned out to be a blessing in disguise. In November, my dad passed away after a heart attack. That spring and fall with him at home, watching the Red Sox go to the World Series, provided me with memories that I still cherish.
After I graduated from UConn with a degree in economics my condition worsened causing me to reveive a double lung transplant. Following my transplant I started a marathon golf event as a volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. In 1996, I was put on the CFF staff and have since become the Director of Special Projects and the Executive Director of the CT chapter. Now, at the age 43, I have learned that living with CF has given me a unique perspective on life, one that has taught me to live in the moment and never loose hope. I currently live in Plantsville CT with my wife and two dogs—taking one day at a time and always maintaining a positive outlook on life.
Learn More About Paul:
Favorite Holiday?
Thanksgiving
Favorite food?
Chicken
Favorite Past time?
Painting (pointillism is my specialty!) and the Boston Red Sox
One word that describes you?
Witty
Role Model?
My Mom
Dream Vacation?
Alaska (I traveled there with Boomer!)
A Fun Fact about Paul Drury:
My wife, Ivona, bought me at a CF bachelor bid in 1998. We have been together ever since.
You can find Paul on…
Facebook
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