Wolfsister003's story

By wolfsister003

1 min read

Worked in ball bearing factories for 41 years - 28 as a tool maker. Smoked for about the same amount. Have emphysema and fibrosis - nothing like a double whammy. Took up stained glass before retiring, only to be stopped by my illness. Unless I can find a way to use a soldering iron while on oxygen.

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Casey Hribar Community Admin
Hi wolfsister003! Thanks for sharing with us! I'm so sorry to hear about your emphysema and fibrosis.... no!!! How frustrating and scary! I'm also so sorry to hear about your stained glass hobby being cut short. I wonder if you can talk to your doctor about wanting to start this hobby again? Maybe they can help provide you with some tips so you can get back into it? Just a thought! Please keep us posted on everything. We're so glad you've found our community! We're here for you! -Casey, <a href='https://copd.net' target='_blank'>COPD.net</a> Team
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
Hi wolfsister003 and thanks for telling us your story. I know you posted this concern about soldering and using supplemental oxygen in our Q & A section. As you are aware, (since we've interacted there, too), our discussion is posted in that area. In order to be thorough and, so your concern here does not go unanswered, here is the reply copied for your convenience: Hi wolfsister003 and thanks for posting your inquiry. In the most general of terms, it’s not a good idea to use oxygen around electrical devices for temporary work. Wearing your supplemental oxygen while using a soldering gun might put you at risk should there be some sort of electrical spark from the gun itself or electrical outlet. Some ‘might’ say this is being too careful or not a necessary precaution. When it comes to using oxygen (which supports combustion), my belief is to err on the side of caution. What do you think?" All the best, Leon (site moderator) "
wolfsister003 Member
Yes unfortunately I agree just was checking incase someone had come up with some brilliant way to do it. I have been trying once in a while to go 10 or 15 minutes soldering without my oxygen. I can do but it takes allot out of me and I sometimes wonder if it is worth it
1. Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
 Thanks for the feedback, wolfsister003. I was trying to determine if you'd looked into trying to do what you love (soldering) after evaluating if you could tolerate being off oxygen for a period of time. Of course, it would make sense to discuss this also with your physician. The fact that you have tried it and found that it actually does take a lot of you can help to guide you towards a decision. Ultimately, the decision is yours. Naturally, we are here for support - you can count on us. Warmly, Leon (site moderator)