Learning to Live with Diagnosis

By r0divl

1 min read

It has been about twelve years since I first learned my diagnosis. Having dealt with asthma since I was 19, I was familiar with breathlessness. I thought my time would be over long ago.

Able to do more with oxygen

Once I qualified for oxygen treatment I felt so much better. We have an RV, so we went all over as long as I had my GoGo. To enjoy the pool, I attached my 25 foot hose to the oxygen canister and made sure I didn’t get in anyone’s way with my tether. When I was able to get a portable oxygen concentrator, I was even more adventurous. I would recharge my equipment wherever we went, as needed.

Attitude gave me freedom

My GoGo, my oxygen, and my Dachshund travelled near and far. Attitude is what gave me freedom. Staying a bit closer to home now and more restricted as to shortness of breath, I paint in my studio every day, shop by mail and home delivery for groceries. My husband is my caregiver and has taken over the household and cooking. He has been my hero. At 73, I recognize how fortunate I am.

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rheanette-lee Member
Rheanette Lee
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi Rheanette Lee - is there something we can assist you with? Please let us know, and we will do what we can to assist. All the best, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
Hi r0divl, and thanks for sharing your story here with the community. We appreciate you lending your support and encouragement for everyone. As well, we value the personal experiences that you were able to share here, too. It sounds like you have adjusted to this quite well after having managed COPD (and asthma), for many years. It must be so gratifying to have your devoted husband as your caregiver. You sound like a very fortunate couple, indeed. Warm regards, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
1. r0divl Member
 Thank you!
2. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 You're very welcome, r0divl. Please know you are always welcome in our community. Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)
eday44 Member
I've had two bad experiences with pulmonary doctors. My questions go unanswered. Very little feedback. My frustration level is high? I'm puzzled as to why these doctors do not encourage discussion? I wonder at what I may be doing wrong?
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Hi <inline-mention user-id="2423638" username="eday44"/> , and thanks for your post - you raise a good point! From my perspective YOU are not doing anything wrong. The shortcoming or information gap I believe belongs to the two physicians with whom you had these issues. It's always a better scenario when physicians can be open and forthcoming about medical information when dealing with their patients. Have you found a doctor yet who is better suited to the way you would prefer to have your care provided? Would you consider looking for this type of physician? Wishing you well, Leon (site moderator <a href='http://COPD.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a>)

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