Deborah Kern

Hi, my name is Deb Kern, and I would like to introduce myself as your AlphaNet Coordinator.

I live in Belgrade, Montana with my husband Bill, and my red fox lab, Otis. I have three adult children and four very special grandchildren. I’m fortunate that they all live in the area, and I love spending time with them. I’m active in our church, and during my spare time, I enjoy reading, quilting, and listening to music. When it’s not snowing, I love tending to my veggie garden and camping. I still hike and cross-country ski as far and long as my backpack oxygen will allow.

I am a Family Nurse Practitioner by profession and have worked as both a primary provider and a university instructor for thirty years. However, I needed to retire due to my lung disease.

I was diagnosed with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency as a ZZ in 2016 and began augmentation therapy right away. I had been told I had asthma for 20 years before eventually testing myself for Alpha-1. I don’t know about my family history regarding Alpha-1, as both my parents smoked and had already passed by the time I was diagnosed. Neither of my brothers are ZZ, and my children and grandchildren are clear. I have learned so much through this process and greatly appreciated the support of my Coordinator and the AlphaNet family over the years.

I am very excited about this new chapter and the opportunity to reach out and support each of you as we walk this journey together. I know it can be confusing, discouraging, and overwhelming at times, but I also know that knowledge and support help us face these challenges and empower each of us to live with this disease in a positive and healthy way. Thank you for allowing me to serve you as a fellow Alpha.