My journey with Alpha-1 starts like many other Alphas, seeing lots of doctors and not being able to get anywhere with the cause of breathing issues. I signed up with 23andme in 2013 and my results showed I had an inherited condition; but 23andme also noted that I would likely not be affected by it so I didn’t pay much attention to it. Three years later, after many different doctor visits and tests, I recalled the 23andme test and asked my doctor if my breathing issues could have anything to do with “alpha something.”
That question changed everything and after some Alpha-1 tests, I was officially diagnosed as a Pi*SZ Alpha. After a year of monitoring my lungs and a steady decline in function, I began infusions in 2018.
I’m happy to say despite my Alpha-1 condition, I’ve had a very rewarding life with rich experiences. I joined the U. S. Air Force when I was 17 and served as an intelligence analyst for 9 years. My duty assignments included Texas, England, Japan and South Florida (Homestead AFB and NAS Key West). After leaving the Air Force I remained in Key West where I worked in Hotel Management until relocating with my family to Nevada. Settling in Carson City, I completed a 25-year career with Nevada Public Safety and retired from the State during the Pandemic. In 2022 I moved to Las Vegas. I have two adult children who live in the Reno area.
I have a few avocations, but my primary enjoyment is composing music. I play keyboards and guitar and have played in several bands over the years. While stationed in Japan, I won two regional Yamaha sponsored popular music contests for best song. I don’t play with bands anymore, but I continue to compose mostly pop and alternative songs, and instrumental music. I’m a member of the Las Vegas Songwriters Association where I also collaborate on new music.
Throughout my life, I’ve always enjoyed helping others. Today, I’m happy that I can be part of the “Alpha family” serving other Alphas!