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Diagnosis and where I am today.

Hi I wanted to share when I got diagnosed on June 6th 2016 stage 4 COPD it was obvious I had COPD years before but always declined the offer of a Lung Function test. I was scared to know the truth (back then) so it wasn't until I was rushed into hospital not being able to breathe and a gradual weight loss down to 6 stone I realised how I'll I actually was. A night in the ICU and 2 weeks on a HDU wearing an NIVmask , it hit me what I had done to myself, years of smoking and not listening. I quit smoking the day I was rushed into hospital. On my release it was a very slow progress forward a( scary one) but I got there. For ,long time I was build up drinks, now 3 years on I've done the Pulmonary Rehab programme I exercise regularly using dumbbells squats (as far as my knees allow). Marching on the spot leg raises with ankle weights. I'm on a high calorie diet though I eat healthy I snack on crisps and sweets as I burn a lot of cal7breathing. I want to say
#thinkpositivebepositive
#thereslifeafteradiagnosis,
There is I've learnt to adapt and do the things I can do if I'm having a bad day I will do a hobbie like reading or arts and crafts. If I go into town I use a wheelchair as I cant walk a distance I'm ok with that I'm alive a healthy 9 stone. Keep fighting life is for living its precious and a gift. COPD does not rule my life I Rule COPD . Debz Borge

  1. Debz Thanks for the pep talk! You are an inspiration. Hoping once I get a little more healthy I can be saying I do similar. It is all about the "living life" and not allowing this disease to rule us all the way. Thank you!

    1. , I'm sad to share that our Debz passed away in 2021, but her family asked that we keep her sharing her work on our site to continue to help and inspire our COPD community. I can say that she would agree wholeheartedly with you, that living your life and not letting COPD rule it is SO important. Wishing you a peaceful day. All the best, Sam S. (COPD team).

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