WHO is STRONGER Than SARCOIDOSIS?
You are not alone.
Together we are Stronger Than Sarcoidosis.
Cheryl Bradford
Vice President
Cheryl was diagnosed with sarcoidosis in October 2001, but initially did not have debilitating or
worrisome symptoms until 2010, when she developed a constant cough and chest pain. After years
of going to different pulmonologists who could not help her, in 2013, she was rushed to the hospital
after passing out and hitting her head on the bathroom sink. There, she learned that her condition
had worsened: Cheryl has sarcoidosis in her lungs, lymph nodes, sinuses, skin, and most recently, her
bones. She has also been diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy, pulmonary hypertension, multiple
aspergillomas of the lungs, Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), scarring of the lungs, and exertion
hypoxemia (low blood oxygen), all due to the sarcoidosis. All this resulted in her early retirement
due to disability from the Department of Education.
Since her retirement, Cheryl now focuses on a healthier lifestyle, including working out three days
per week. Cheryl has a saying about sarcoidosis and exercise: “kicking sarcoidosis’ butt one
exercise at a time.” Cheryl also volunteers at her church and Hope Day Network, an organization
affiliated with her church that gives back to the community.
Cheryl always finds time to spread awareness and advocate for sarcoidosis. Once while
vacationing at her second home (Bermuda), she was interviewed about her illness; it was
broadcast live across Europe, and received great feedback. Cheryl is a
Patient Ambassador for the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, and a
mentor for ILD at Snow Companies. In May, Cheryl recorded a video for
Snow Companies about living in the pandemic with Sarcoidosis. Soon she
will be featured in Lungs And You Magazine and on its website.
Cheryl lives in Queens, NY, next door to her sister and caregiver, Vera,
who is her greatest support and best friend. She always looks forward to
spending time with her biggest fans, daughter Lynette and grandson
Samir, who live in Charlotte, NC.