Emily

Age Range 25-44

Got Inspire on September 28, 2020

During my early years of high school, I remember bedtime as being a struggle and source of anxiety. It was difficult for me to fall asleep and stay asleep. Gradually, I noticed a constant feeling of sleepiness, lack of energy, lack of interest in my social life and activities, and a decrease in cognitive function. When I was 17, I was diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Not too long after my diagnosis, I underwent a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy. Both were not successful in treating my sleep apnea. After college graduation, I tried CPAP. Unfortunately, CPAP did not work for me. It was very uncomfortable, and it caused me to feel even more anxiety. The next option I explored was an expensive oral appliance that was to be used nightly. It was likely my teeth would shift and this treatment would ultimately result in TMJ. Eventually, I became so desperate for relief that I visited an ENT to discuss surgery for my deviated septum thinking it would help. It was there I found a brochure for Inspire. After this day, life seemed to fall perfectly into place. I received my implant in September 2020.

Interests: I enjoy baking, cooking, reading, and hanging with my family and friends. I have recently discovered I also like hiking. This may sound crazy, but I think I am just now getting to know the real me!

Why I chose Inspire therapy to treat my sleep apnea: I was not getting any relief from any of the treatment options I tried, and I was tired of going from doctor to doctor. I feel as though I lost 10 years of my life.

In a few short words, I would describe Inspire therapy as: A new beginning. I can be the best version of myself, and I am getting reacquainted with living my life.

Why am I a Patient Ambassador? I want to share my experience with others in hopes that anyone who is struggling with sleep apnea knows about a solution that actually works at any age. If you are young, you may not realize what you are experiencing is not normal. If you are among the older population, do not feel hopeless. I encourage you to try one last thing! Put your reservations aside, so you can start living your best life. No one should have to spend his or her life struggling to sleep and feeling hopeless. Inspire has changed my life; I am no longer just surviving and can now live my best life!