I Don't Want to Wear Oxygen Because I Don't Want to Get Dependent on it

By Jackie English

3 min read

Someday your doctor may prescribe oxygen therapy for you if or when your lung function starts to decline. Some patients don't want to start on oxygen because they think that they will get dependent on it. I have heard this many times over the past 10 years that I have been on oxygen. I have even had the thought myself, but we are all dependent on oxygen. We all need it to survive. Some just need more help getting it than others.

Addressing concerns

Addiction

I have also heard others say they don't want to get addicted to oxygen. Which kind of goes along the same lines - we are addicted. We all need it to survive, but I have learned a lot from years from going to National Alpha-1 and COPD conferences and hearing what the experts have to say. I learned more about why my body needs oxygen: my lungs don’t breathe in the oxygen that it needs as easily as someone with healthy lungs.

Long lives

At one of those conferences that I attended, a pulmonary doctor did a talk on oxygen therapy and had mentioned a study from the past that showed using oxygen therapy prolonged COPD patients' lives by many more years than those who didn't use oxygen when prescribed. This was enough for me to start using my oxygen as directed and not just when I felt like it.

Symptoms and stares

Shortness of breath

Another thing that I learned after being put on oxygen is that the oxygen didn't help me with being short of breath. I was still short of breath at times but my body was getting the oxygen that it needed. My brain, my heart, and the rest of my organs, etc.

Visible illness

I hate to say it, but one thing that I did like when I got put on oxygen was that people could see that my lungs were sick now. I used to park in a handicapped spot before I got my oxygen and would get the staredown. That happened so many times. At least now I didn't feel like I needed to explain myself. It's terrible when you are made to feel that way. I shouldn't have worried about what others had thought. We should remember that not all diseases or sicknesses are visible.

My grandkids

How they know me

My grandkids don’t know me any other way than with oxygen. I have babysat them all over the years and they have all teethed on my hose, learned to walk around it, or lift a foot while walking to not get tangled (even though I have myself, way too many times to count). It’s so amazing to think that not one of my grandkids has tripped over my hose learning to walk or otherwise. They also know that I may need to take a minute from time to time to untangle a hose, change a battery, switch a tank, and will even help me do it.

Helping their Nana

They are all so caring and loving and all say that they want to help me breathe better. For example, one time my granddaughter was worried about me because I couldn’t catch my breath. She cupped up her sweet little hands, put them to her mouth, blew into them, and then put her hands up to my mouth to share her breath with me. She said, "Here Nana, you can have mine." Of course, I cried at the gesture which even made me more out of breath. I just love all of them so much. They are always trying to do something to help their Nana.

Adjustment and information

It took a while to get used to wearing oxygen. I still have days that I just want to throw my whole concentrator and hose out the door never to return, but then I realize how much it has helped me live longer, breathe better, and provide my body with what it needs.

I hope this has helped those who question oxygen use or not. There are many articles and websites to help you if you need more information on oxygen. I would also suggest talking to your doctor or even your pulmonary rehab therapist if you have one. The more you know, the more I think you will realize that oxygen therapy is a good thing. I’d love to hear your thoughts on how your oxygen therapy is going.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The COPD.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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whirledpeas Member
<inline-mention username="Editorial Team" user-id="2416107"/> Hi Jackie, Great post about oxygen and grandchildren! I have been using supplemental oxygen for almost five years. At first I needed it 24/7, but since I had pulmonary valves installed in February of 2020, now I use it mostly for sleeping, or exertion, like treadmill or vacuuming. (which I don't do often enough). Before I started using it, I had read that you could only use oxygen therapy for five years. So I was reluctant to start using it until it was absolutely necessary. My doctor's nurse said that was nonsense, that her mom had used it for over ten years, and was still going strong. After that I stopped worrying that it might decrease my remaining years, how it looked, or how it might make me housebound. The simple fact is, if your lungs can't produce enough oxygen to keep your levels high enough, all your organs, including your brain, start to deteriorate, and that's what decreases your lifespan. I needed it, and using supplemental oxygen has really helped my life become easier and better. Yes, I still get out of breath sometimes, even when I'm using O2. COPD doesn't appear to have a quick fix. However, I now sleep through the night instead of waking up gasping for air every hour or two. That is a blessing in itself! Your grandkids are darling, and the pictures perfectly make the point about how they easily adjust to the situation. Kids are great with oxygen tubes and the paraphenalia that goes with them. I was at the eye doctor's office one day, and a little boy about five with glasses whispered to his mom, "What is that?" pointing at my portable concentrator and nasal canula. Before his mother could respond, I said, "It's like your glasses. They help you see better. This helps me breathe better." His mom breathed a sigh of relief, and thanked me for the explanation. The little boy was satisfied with the answer, and life went on. My grandchildren, too, take it for granted or ignore it. They are patient when I say, "I need to sit down a minute," and understand it's just like glasses. The longer I use supplemental O2, the less of a distraction it is. I take it for granted with hardly a thought. I sleep well, have lots of energy, though my stamina could use some pumping up, and grab it when I need it.
Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="whirledpeas" user-id="2415812"/> thank you for sharing! It's amazing how many times in our journey that we have been mis lead about different things. I do the same when kids ask. I tell their parents that it is ok when they ask, that's how they learn. I always try to explain it but the glasses is a great teaching tool. I'll have to remember that for the future. Best, Jackie (Author/moderator)
twovillages Member
Thanks for the encouragement. I think there were some characters in movies I saw that portrayed some elderly people on oxygen in a comic way. It might have been connected with non-smoking ads. They were AWFUL. Not only did the people look very disheveled, and close to death, but they were behaving as though they also had some dementia. I think I thought I'd rather hide in my house. Maybe they can put some ads on with people looking normal. Even the ads for light-weight concentraters could use some more healthy looking actors. If I am SOB, using my portable concentrater, at 2 L, helps me slow down my breathing with the pulse feature. That helps my saturation go up, and I can relax more.
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="twovillages" user-id="2403860"/> you're welcome! I thank you for your input! I agree. I think the commercials need some younger looking actors also. I have many friends in their fourties who are on oxygen. I'm so glad to hear that your supplemental oxygen is helping. Best, Jackie (moderator)
sheryldill Member
I live in Las Vegas and I'm looking for an Oxygen group that I can get involved with. Does anyone know of such a group or where I can find one? 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="sheryldill" user-id="2470680"/> Hi sheryl - great question - thanks for posting it! We actually have a wealth of information, published right here on <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>, which focuses on this very subject. For your convenience, here is a link to several articles on support groups: https://copd.net/search?s=support%20groups. I do hope you find the information is helpful in a practical way. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="sheryldill" user-id="2470680"/> I see Leon gave you a lot of great info about our resources here. Are you looking for a local in-person support group? There are a lot of great support groups out there that you can find more info about online if you google some COPD groups in your area. Hope this helps! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
gruff9 Member
I've been down the same path and concluded the same things you did. That said, there are certain disabilities that do come with O2 therapy. One, is that it burns out my sense of smell. The only thing I can smell now is my neighbor's perfume when she wears it. On the other hand I've also discovered that not being able to smell has been a gift with regard some odors. I'm also on a home ventilator, which is a new twist that is supposed to restore my ability to live without shortness of breath. I've not found that so as yet, but then I can't take the ventilator O2 as I'm supposed to since the masks they supplied play havoc with my claustrophobia. After 15 to 20 seconds on one, I rip it off my face gasping. I've modified this by using a simple mouthpiece which enables me to have O2 forced into my lungs without those claustrophobic masks. It reduces the efficiency of the ventilator but I am beginning to see some improvement in my ability to go without O2 for longer period of time (increments of 2-3 minutes right now but I'm hoping for longer breaks.
6hjeu Member
I just read Jackie’s post about o2 use. I’ve been on it at 4 liters since I was diagnosed in 2013. I do get annoyed with it now and then, but, for the most part I am glad to be on it. I’ve only had one exacerbation in 8 years and that was caused by medication for pulmonary hypertension. It caused very low hemoglobin so I was not getting enough o2 to my vital organs and was constantly short of breath. Once medication was switched and after 4 units of blood, I felt wonderful. I also like to use my oxygen as a teaching moment whenever kids are curious about why I have this tube attached to my nose. I have never allowed it to stop me from doing most of the things I enjoy, I may do it slower, and sit down to catch my breath more often, but it doesn’t stop me. Maybe because my Mother died of COPD, I am more aware of how to handle the annoyances.
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="6hjeu" user-id="2422675"/> thank you for sharing! You have a great attitude and that goes a long way. I like to use the oxygen to help curious children also and to show parents that it is okay to ask about the oxygen. Do you mind if I ask If you have been tested for Alpha 1? Just curious since you had stated that your mom had COPD also. I have Alpha 1 and was wondering if you had it also? Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator) 
2. 6hjeu Member
 <inline-mention username="Jackie English" user-id="2415342"/>
beverlydemarco Member
WHEN I WAS TOLD I HAD TO GO ON OXYGEN AT NIGHT ONLY I WAS A LITTLE SCARED ABOUT GETTING USE TO IT AND DIDN'T WANT TO DEPEND ON IT TO GET ME THROUGH THE NIGHT, THEN I FOUND OUT IT HELPED ME SO MUCH AND THEY PUT ME ON IT 24/7. I NOW CANNOT GO EVEN A MINUTE WITHOUT MY OXYGEN ON! IT REALLY HELPS ME TO GET THROUGH EACH DAY WITH STAGE4 COPD. I USE IT IN THE SHOWER, COOKING SMALL MEALS , EXERCISING, AND I HAVE BEEN ON IT ALMOST THREE YEARS. I DONT THINK I WOULD HAVE LASTED THIS LONG WITHOUT OXYGEN, EVEN THOUGH IT DOESNT HELP ME WHEN I GET SO SHORT OF BREATHE. I USE MY INHALER THAT GIVES ME QUICK RELIEF. 
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="beverlydemarco" user-id="2407285"/> thank you for sharing! I'm so happy that the oxygen has helped you! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
fr0van Member
I was told to use my oxygen when I walk. That is exactly what I do. I have been hauling my portable concentrator for a few years now. My life is a full one and I am grateful for such machines.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="fr0van" user-id="2476063"/> Hi fr0van, and thanks for joining in the conversation. Glad to hear you are able to utilize the oxygen, as recommended for you, while walking. That must make it easier for you to live your full and active life! Do you find you are comfortable without the oxygen while you are at rest? Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="fr0van" user-id="2476063"/> thank you so much for sharing! I’m so happy for you that you are still able to get out and do things with your portable! Love to hear that your life is full and that you are grateful for your machine! 😊Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
jeania Member
Dr. Tom Petty did the research that the doc's comments with regard to living longer are based on. It's something that was established back in the early 80s I think. I'm glad you pointed out that O2 doesn't always relieve your sob. I think that's one of the misconceptions that causes people to not think it's working: no one told them that the point was to make sure the O2 gets to all the part of the body to ensure that everything works the way it's supposed to and not to relieve their sob. Docs really need to have lessons on what to tell people about O2. They forget that most people never learned how O2 is important or forgot those basic biology concepts long ago. I've been using O2 regularly for about 10 years, after getting off it completely for nearly 10 years, and prior to covid, I was traveling at least twice or three times a month for work and COPD advocacy, so I was schlepping through airports with my POC for a long time. I learned early in the game that no one paid any attention to me, or if they did it was because they wanted to know where I got my POC or to tell me positive things. People are way too busy with their own stuff to pay attention to you and if they do look, just give them a big smile and hello and they'll realize you're just like them.
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="jeania" user-id="2437143"/> 😊 yes. Just love Peg! I had been at all of those events. 
2. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="Jackie English" user-id="2415342"/> Hi Jackie - it's my pleasure - I was happy to do it! He was a leader in this field for all those years, throughout his illustrious career. His works are still quoted today! Regards, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
Ace1213 Member
I use my POC every night as prescribed by my doctor. I also use it when I know I will be involved in strenuous activity. As written here, it does not necessarily keep me from being short of breath, but it does keep my O2 levels where they should be.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="Ace1213" user-id="4165856"/> Hi Ace, and thank you for joining in the conversation here. I'm glad to hear that using the supplemental oxygen helps you throughout your day. For some folks, shortness of breath (SOB), is part of having COPD. But, when one is able to keep their oxygen saturation levels in an acceptable range, it helps the body to function better. Keep up the good work! We appreciate your input and your feedback. All the best, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 Hi <inline-mention username="Ace1213" user-id="4165856"/>, thank you for sharing! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
kloker Member
Great article! First, I find it utterly hilarious that anyone would fear addiction to oxygen. That would be like addiction to water. And I should know, as I am an addict. Alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. When I was introduced to the use of oxygen through a cannula this year as a full-time gig, I needed no convincing, since my lungs were newly incapable of coming anywhere near being able to cope on their own anymore. I also di my research, which is when I learned that my organs need for my 02 levels to be at or above 91-92 to function properly and be healthy. Yes I still get out of breath at the slightest exertion, while wearing the cannula, but that hose still makes sure my organs get what they need. I know and have known a few folks who didn't want to become dependent, and though I tried to tell them it was a little late to worry about it, they insisted, and all had to learn the hard way that it doesn't work like that. They just made it harder on their bodies - way harder. S But for me 91-92 is a bare minimum, and I really need about 96 to be happy and relaxed. Below that my lungs struggle and the fear begins. My granddaughters are in their twenties now, and they don't like it when I talk baby talk to them. But they are nonetheless very supportive. When they have time, of course.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="kloker" user-id="4235094"/> Hi again, kloker, and thanks for chiming in here. Glad to hear that you have a thorough understanding of what supplemental oxygen is all about when used to treat COPD. As you've said, this make all the difference in one's health and ability to successful manage this condition. For some folks, it is absolutely essential. Naturally, it can vary (considerably) among patients. For best results and outcomes, all patients should work closely with their physician(s) to insure the COPD is being treated and managed optimally. We value your input and support for others in the community, kloker! Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 Hi <inline-mention username="kloker" user-id="4235094"/>! Thank you! I know, some just have a hard time accepting that. I'm glad that you have understood and are using it to help your whole body, not just your lungs. I'm also happy to hear that your granddaughters are still supportive. Thank you for sharing snd explaining what works for you! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
Powerhouse1 Member
I have to be on oxygen in order to keep my carbon dioxide level as low as it can be. The Dr's have me running at 91% O2 with a range of 88 to 92 at 1 liter intake. I am constantly making sure I am in that range with the oximeter. I have to make sure I have adequate supply for any trips outside the safety of my home. I too find it unsettling when I am getting enough oxygen but have shortness of breath. Doesn't make sense to me, and it gets scary at times. I know that the O2 therapy is keeping me alive so I bear it. 
1. whirledpeas Member
 <inline-mention username="Powerhouse1" user-id="4250739"/> I am also a "retainer," as they say. My level is the same, at 2 liters. You do have to watch pretty carefully, and it can be frightening. I am at the point in my life now where I accept it, because it keeps me going. I look at it this way: everybody's got something. I have my legs, eyesight, brain, and no arthritis. So I am ok to monitor my levels.
2. Powerhouse1 Member
 <inline-mention username="whirledpeas" user-id="2415812"/> A grateful attitude like yours helps tremendously as well! It keeps me going!
RobM6107 Member
Howdy All. I'm a newbie here (unfortunately). Early 60's & diag ILS. Have been using 02 for over a yr now (2l in 3l out -M6 tanks). Having been an outdoors person (hiking, biking, swimming), this is TRUELY a BIG P in the A situation. And being bi-polar doesn't help as well. I'm a fighter but this illness (ILS) is defeating. Wasn't too long ago that climbing a hill whether via bike or hike was a challenge, now just making the bed and need to sit down for a break. Not wanting to be a downer here but all this "feel good" postings are.......HUMOROUS/LOL. I've lost count on how much I want to just "chuck the tanks-n-concentrator" & use the tubing for other constructive purposes. Never Fear, just needed to vent......Sorry.
1. whirledpeas Member
 <inline-mention username="RobM6107" user-id="6717931"/> Hi, Rob, I have been in your shoes many times. Six years on the green hose, reduced to just at night when I had the Zephyr valves installed. But either way, I use it because I need it, and push aside the memories of floating free as a bird out to the back fence! At this point, I take it as a blessing that I can take it off when sitting down sometimes. Hopefully, that will improve. But either way, it doesn't take me long to appreciate the ability to draw in a long, full breath, whatever it takes. On the other hand, I vent plenty! No one wants to be confined and constrained. Not being able to just be free is such an imposition! I sometimes feel very dependent on supplemental oxygen, like when I have to take it off to wash my face. Sometimes I don't want to. I keep it very close at hand, sometimes around my wrist, to be able to put it back on right away. I guess we do what we have to do. For me, the worst is the guilt, which I am trying to manage, sometimes better than other times. I smoked in the 60s when it was very glamorous, and on another couple decades. I accept my punishment. But, even the guilt is becoming more manageable, because I have paid enough. My brother, the arrogant and superior pediatrician, always tells me, "You earned that. You bought that for yourself." The last time I saw him I said, "Okay. I earned it. But can I please be done paying for it?!"
2. Mishell Member
 <inline-mention username="RobM6107" user-id="6717931"/> I can relate, sorry you're going through this too.
kb1958 Member
How high on the pulse ox is good. What I mean is if you 98 to 99 do you still need to sleep with oxygen?
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 Hi, <inline-mention username="kb1958" user-id="2408157"/> ! It depends if your oxygen drops at night with your sleep. The only way to tell for sure is to have an overnight sleep study where they test your oxygen levels all night long. I hope this answered your question. Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
Geobro Member
Never imagined picking and choosing places to go. Because of the time limit, oxygen tank or portable concentrator. Portable concentrators make it a little easier. But anxiety always sets in, extra stuff to carry,then stopping to rest with rollator. Looking into electric foldable wheelchairs...I don't know? If I can afford. But I want to be more active...
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="Geobro" user-id="6916931"/> Hi Geobro - I hear you! It can often times be a concern when traveling or, even when going out locally. One must always be cognizant of the equipment and the length of time for which the oxygen supply will last. As you said, portable concentrators, depending on battery life and/or access to household electrical current, can make all this somewhat easier. An electrical wheelchair or mobility device of some kind, can ease your burden as well. We actually have a number of articles published, right here on <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>, which speak to mobility apparatus. Should you be interested in reading some of these, here is a link to several of them, for your convenience: https://copd.net/search?s=electric%20scooter. I do hope you find the information is helpful in a practical way. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 It can get so hard at times to get around, <inline-mention username="Geobro" user-id="6916931"/>. You might get your insurance to help you with getting one if your doctor writes a prescription for you. It may be worth looking into. Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
MsMerry1 Member
Thank you Jackie. I think you just may have made it much easier for anyone needing supplemental oxygen that may be afraid to start using it or that 'old school' thinking that if we start we become dependent on it. I remember being told that if I did start using oxygen I would need it more often and I would never be able to come off it. People mean well but are to often misinformed when it comes to COPD and any lung issues. And the most difficult part of being on supplemental oxygen is people who don't mean well and point fingers in judgement. We do not know someone else's story or their journey getting to where they are now. I wish people like this would stop and think before they speak or point that finger. I am so grateful for everything I am learning here at <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>. Thank you to everyone who contributes. It's wonderful how we can help each other when we share different aspects of our journey and know you are not alone in yours.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="MsMerry1" user-id="4171122"/> Hi again, Merry, and thanks so much for your kind words. All of us at <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> appreciate your kindness. We are glad to have YOU as a participating member here, too! Warm regards, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 You're very welcome, <inline-mention username="MsMerry1" user-id="4171122"/>! I'm so happy to hear that our articles help others. That is why we do it. I appreciate you hearing this from you. It can be difficult when people talk or point fingers. It is wonderful how we can all help each other. I love this site for that. Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
Mishell Member
I have read so much about supplemental oxygen, I dont know what or who to believe, too much information out there.
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 <inline-mention username="Mishell" user-id="8536084"/> Hi Mishell, and thanks for expressing your concerns, regarding supplemental oxygen therapy, with the community. I am sorry to hear you feel there is 'too much' information out there when it comes to this topic. I would like to be of help to you, if I can. Is there anything in particular that I can explain or clarify when it comes to the use of oxygen therapy? If you give me an opportunity, I will do what I can to assist. All the best, Leon (site moderator <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 I'm so sorry, <inline-mention username="Mishell" user-id="8536084"/>! Most of everything that I have learned about oxygen I learned from The COPD Foundation, The Alpha 1 Foundation, this forum, and from all of my many friends who have been on oxygen for just as long or even way longer than me. This is my 12 the year now that I have with oxygen. I'm always learning something new. It can be confusing but I just try to read and learn all that I can. If you have any questions live to help answer if I can and if I can't I'll try to find the answer for you. Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
CommunityMember9f144e Member
wondering if I can improve my lungs with walking and deep breathing. 
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi <inline-mention username="CommunityMember9f144e" user-id="8667175"/>, and thanks for your post and question - it's a good one! Generally speaking, staying active, exercising (to one's own physical ability), and breathing strategies, can benefit folks with a COPD diagnosis. My suggestion would be to speak with your private medical doctor (PMD). The physician will be the best health care professional to guide you as to what is most suitable for your specific level of disease. Should you want to read more about this particular topic, I thought this material might provide you with some additional insight: https://copd.net/living/staying-active-is-key. What do you think? Leon L (author/moderator)
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 Most definitely, <inline-mention username="CommunityMember9f144e" user-id="8667175"/> ! Not necessarily healing your lungs but helping them to work a bit better. As with starting anything new, be sure to check with your doctor first. Here is a great article that has some different ways to exercise <a href='https://copd.net/living/different-exercises' target='_blank'>https://copd.net/living/different-exercises</a>. I hope this helps! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
CommunityMemberda9a86 Member
I have recently been prescribed part time oxygen. I was so upset and I could not even talk about it without crying. My family had no problem accepting it but I sure did. I keep an eye on my oxygen levels and I use it in the house when I am active. I have a POC but although it is on 7.5 pounds, it's very heavy for me and I HATE IT. I am trying to get used to it but it's hard! I am afraid to look into or purchase smaller oxygen concentrators online because I feel a lot of the testimonies are fake just to lure us into buying one. When I ask a question, I don't get a straight answer....I am happy to have this group to talk with. I am also on a COPD group on Facebook and they are helpful. 
1. CommunityMember8f7c48 Member
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMemberda9a86" user-id="8878349"/> I also had trouble carrying my heavy POC. I went on Amazon and found a carrier on wheels that works great. It is called a mini moving truck, for moving small boxes and such. My POC was the same as carrying a gallon of milk with you every where you go!! And yes, it's impossible to explain to people that don't have the task. Hope this helps you. 
2. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 <inline-mention username="CommunityMember8f7c48" user-id="8397841"/> thanks for the great tip!! We appreciate it! Best, Jackie (Author/Moderator)
KatieLou Member
I’m addicted to oxygen and I liked how you said we all are. How true. I also like what you said regarding shortness of breath. You can still be short of breath but your brain, heart, and the rest of your organs benefit enormously from the oxygen. I didn’t think about this when I first started using oxygen. Just thought it would help me with SOB which it can sometimes but most importantly helps me when exercising which I could not do any aerobic exercise without it. Getting my heart rate up there is possible with the oxygen & helps me to feel so much better. I love the section on helping their Nana. So sweet. 
1. Jackie English Moderator & Contributor
 Thanks for sharing, <inline-mention username="KatieLou" user-id="9771074"/> ! It’s so true, we don’t realize at first how much it helps us. They are so sweet to their Nana!! Best, Jackie (Author)