Susan "Susie" Brown

Hello, my name is Susie Brown and I would like to introduce myself as your AlphaNet Coordinator.

I am originally from Maryland and lived for many years in Virginia. I now reside in Pawleys Island, South Carolina with my husband and our two dogs.

I enjoy interacting with people and worked in customer service for over 30 years. I’m thrilled to be able to use those skills to help other Alphas.

Because of my family history—three of my ten siblings were diagnosed with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency—I decided to get tested. In 2000, I was diagnosed as a ZZ and began augmentation therapy in my mid-30s. I also made some lifestyle changes which included exercising, eating healthier, and being conscientious of my surroundings. More importantly, I wanted to learn as much as I possibly could about Alpha-1.

Like most Alphas, my initial reaction to this rare condition was to be scared and confused. At that time, it was difficult to even find doctors familiar with Alpha-1. Luckily, my AlphaNet Coordinator was always there for me. Now, I would like to not only be a source of information and guidance but also provide understanding and support to my fellow Alphas by empowering and assisting in any way possible.