Saturday, June 02, 2012

Living With COPD: When There Isn’t Any “More” to Do

By Jane M. Martin, BA, LRT, CRT, Health Pro Wednesday, April 27, 2011
“Jane, isn’t there something more I can do? There must be something! I mean, is this as good as I’m ever going to get?” Betty, a 73-year old lady with smiling eyes and a hearty laugh, had COPD. Very severe COPD. “I mean, I’m on all the right medications, and I take...
Living With COPD: When Mom Can’t Breathe
5/ 5/11 8:20am

I make quilted throws for people I come across in my life. At this point I am unable to get out much but am always on the lookout for someone, anyone that I come in contact with and start sewing. The surprise on their face is precious but that smile that comes across their face when they see the throw is priceless and puts real joy in my heart. There is no doctor or medicine that could ever replace that dose of joy and the strength it gives me. Helping and doing for others is a great helper for your own health and well being.

5/ 5/11 9:35am

Dear Anneymay,

 

Absolutely! You said it beautifully..."There is no doctor or medicine that could ever replace that dose of joy and the strength it gives me." You get this.

 

Thank you for telling us how you help, and for lifting us up today!

 

Jane

http://www.breathingbetterlivingwell.com

 


5/ 7/11 9:31pm

I was at first afraid to read the article,as a year ago I was hospitalized twice in April and May and Dr's at hospital very negative about me recovering.They were very surprised I walked and walked in halls so I could come back to my apartment.I am also not eligable for any surgery as my lungs and heart too compromized.Palative care nurse scheduled to call one a week or more if needed.I also go to hospice for mindful meditation.

I have telephone days where I call friends,elderly{I write to them also}

Had to stay in a lot this winter because of weather buy still booked para transit for appointments.

I belong to a 12 step support group[34 years] and usually try to get to 2 meetings a week.

Why? after all this time?   I may not be able to help set up chairs or make coffee but I can stand at the door with my walker,oxygen and be sure no one misses being greeted.Sometimes we are the only Big Book that someone reads.

I also sew and be sure that von,s,helpers and friends are given a hand made item,just for being there.

Helping others helps us keep a positive attitude.Now that nice weather here I can get to the mall on scooter,visit family and frinds who live closeby.

I really find this sight so very helpful.

Thank You for being there.

 

8/ 5/11 2:03pm

Dear Nikpmup,

 

It is I who must thank you for your courage in keeping on, even in the face of severe lung disease, and sharing of yourself. I love how you said you stand and greet people, in spite of your limitations. You know.....a kind word and a smile can make all the difference in somebody's day, and when it comes from a person who has obvious challenges, I appreciate that even more.

 

Again, thank you. It is an honor for me to do the work I do.

 

My Best,

Jane.

 

http://www.breathingbetterlivingwell.com

Ask a Question

Get answers from our experts and community members.

Btn_ask_question_med
View all questions (551) >
By Jane M. Martin, BA, LRT, CRT, Health Pro— Last Modified: 09/08/11, First Published: 04/27/11