Living Through a Pandemic With COPD

Every day seems the same. It's the saddest thing watching the world pass you by. Every day seems to filter into the next like a rehashed movie. I add an extra chore onto my list of things to do just to change up the routine.

I've been chatting to many of my COPD friends online and keeping them as positive and motivated as possible. The most vulnerable and susceptible people are usually those that are isolating alone. I let them know that there will always be someone to talk to and that I am here to support them.

How can we help?

Things that we can do to help include:

• Picking up the phone and making someone's day more interesting and special.
• Watching that movie you swore you'd never watch.
• Reading that book you thought you'd never finish.
• Writing a letter or sending a card to someone whose day will be brighter after reading it.
• Letting someone know how important they are to you. Be available and let them know they are not alone.

Let's also be aware of how vulnerable and susceptible we are to this virus. We can do this by:

• Making sure we look after ourselves and continue to take our meds regularly.
• Having a healthy diet.
• Not socializing with other people.

We all need companionship and personal touch - we just have to be more responsible than usual. My heart goes out to all those lonely people who have to isolate alone.

Remember to keep those all-important hospital appointments and make sure you have enough medication. The hospitals here in the UK are organized and the staff is extremely kind and helpful.

Making your day better

There are things you can do to make your day better, like:

• Waking up every morning and getting dressed. It'll give your day more purpose.
• Eating a healthy breakfast and not forgetting to take your meds.
• Exercising if it is part of your daily routine. Just taking a simple walk around your garden is enough to get your heart pumping.
• Writing. I find writing a great way to express myself - should try it if it helps you.
• Sharing your feelings with the people you love. Anxiety and depression can be quite harmful to us.

Lately, I've been very aware of my breathing. I make sure that no new symptoms are noticeable.

Live, laugh, and love

These three words are very much how I live my life. I believe that a great sense of humor can lift anyone's spirits. I believe that loving people keeps you connected to the world. Be in the moment, let them into your life. Living is the greatest gift of all. Do it for yourself and for the people who love you.

Make each day count. I woke up to the most beautiful sunrise today. It just set my day up well and I realized that my life is full with or without COPD. I hope that my tips are helpful to someone and that they will share them with others.

Bless you all.

Editor's Note: We are heartbroken to share that Liana passed away in November of 2021. She is deeply missed but her encouragement and positivity live on through her articles. Thank you for everything, Liana.