Documents Every COPDer Should Have - Part 2This is part 2 of "Documents Every COPDer Should Have. For part 1, click here. I have been asked several times what medical documents those of us with COPD should...reactionscomments
It's a Shame - Part V: Ideals and Stereotypes“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can't survive.” --Brene Brown So I am sharing our stories. Talking about shame and illness...reactions2comments
It's All In The LightingMy "day job" is in the television industry. I have worked behind the scenes for twenty (plus) years in either the production (technical) side or as a producer. There are...reactionscomments
It's a Shame - Part IV: Guilt and Judgment“I felt ashamed.""But of what? Psyche, they hadn't stripped you naked or anything?""No, no, Maia. Ashamed of looking like a mortal -- of being a mortal.""But how could you help...reactionscomments
What a Difference a Year MakesLooking back I realize That I could bake, cook and clean I could visit, shop and enjoy more than I can now I could walk the dogs and climb even...reactionscomments
It's a Shame - Part 3: What It Means to Be Strong“Empathy’s the antidote to shame. The two most powerful words when we’re in struggle: me too.” —Brene Brown Before writing this article, I spoke with many people who have chronic illnesses...reactionscomments
Documents Every COPDer Should Have - Part 1Editor's note: this is part 1 of a two-part series. Be sure to check out part 2 as well! I have been asked several times what medical documents those of...reactionscomments
It's a Shame - Part 2: Feeling Defeated“The absence of self-love is shame. Guilt is feeling bad about one's actions, but shame is feeling bad about one's self – failure, embarrassment, weakness, overwhelming worthlessness, and feeling disgracefully...reactions8comments
It's a Shame - Part 1: Where It BeginsThis article is going to be difficult to write. You might find it difficult to read. You see, people who have COPD, or any chronic illness, suffer from shame and...reactions3comments
Same Devil, Different Levels - Same Level, Different DevilsThe severity of COPD is normally determined by breathing tests. These tests are used to determine the stage of your COPD. There are 4 stages listed and accepted by medical...reactions1comment
COPD in the SummertimeYour breathing is most important. You will have similar effects year round, however in many places summer is a big change from winter. Summer brings it’s own challenges. Here, where...reactionscomments
Have a Fulfilling Life AnywayI have a fulfilling life even though I'm not a princess (except in my mind) or a Supreme Court judge or a millionaire living on a private beach. I'm actually...reactions4comments
Five Tips after a COPD DiagnosisA COPD Diagnosis: Now What? Cough. Cough. “I don't know why I'm so tired and I can't breathe. Maybe it'll blow over” might be the way it started. “Go to...reactions5comments
Impact of COPD on Quality of Life: By the NumbersAs with many chronic conditions, the full impact an individual’s life can be difficult to assess. Most healthcare professionals focus on managing symptoms and treatment, while the substantial impact on...reactionscomments
Questions for Your PulmonologistIf you have been recently diagnosed with COPD, you may be feeling like you can't do anything that you used to do. There is a mystery behind the new label...reactions6comments
10 Tips to Help You Cope with COPDBeing told you have a lung disease like COPD can be a frightening experience. The idea it’s associated with being short of breath and that it forces you to make...reactions50comments
Five Common Triggers for Shortness of BreathThere are many different reasons that you may become short of breath, and if you are just beginning to learn about COPD, you may be wondering what could be your...reactions8comments
A Transplant StoryDeciding that you are willing to try for a lung transplant is only the beginning. Finding yourself in the middle of the process brings about loads of stress. Then receiving...reactionscomments
My Healthcare Team (Part 2)As mentioned in Part 1, when talking with people about their journey with COPD, it’s important to remind each person that they are unique in their own disease. COPD is...reactions1comment
Waiting For A Lung TransplantAfter you have been approved for a lung transplant you will begin the process of getting your finances, logistics and plans nailed down. It is important that you have a...reactionscomments