Episode 0036: Richie Keane Interview

Title: Richie Keane recommendation to all people with CF: “Stay Clear�…

Jerry Cahill interviews Richie Keane who is 49 years old and “loving and respecting life� Richie grew up in Long Island, NY and is one of 9 children (3 out of 9 have CF – one sister Valerie passed away and Jen Davison is doing well and recently did a podcast)

- Richie grew up in Baldwin, NY.
- Diagnosed at birth “I was a purple baby�
- Richie was very active growing up playing football, baseball, and golf.
- “I started getting sick around 18 years of age and had pancreas surgery at age 30� states Richie.
- The biggest challenge Richie faces is that his breathing has gotten tougher, the complications that develop from CF, and all the time involved doing medications.
- Complications that Richie has experienced include: diabetes, pancreatitis, and osteoporosis (broke over 30 ribs)
- Richie states: “living with CF is tough but I love life and CF has taught me to respect life�
- Richie has been married for 18 years to his wonderful wife Maryanne – she is a “special person� he states.
- Listed for a double lung transplant Richie’s dog “gets me off my butt� and keeps him active prior to transplant.
- Richie’s advice: “keep your chin up, enjoy life, and take the time to get your lungs moving to keep them clear�