Lungnet

Bryan's Story

My name is Bryan.  I reside in Adelaide, South Australia.  My date of birth is 22^nd October 1927.

I have Emphysema with some Asthma content - Yes - I smoked for about 33 years and used all forms of tobacco products along the way - and kicked the habit about 26 years ago.

I was diagnosed with Asthma during the spring of 1994.  My treatment began immediately after diagnosis, with puffers in conjunction with a spacer and later Spiriva with its Handy Haler, also Nuelin tabs.

GPs and Specialists are generally running against the clock, therefore having little time to fully educate each patient.  That is where pulmonary rehabilitation programs so ably fill the void.

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are the pathway to conveying information - which is the key to ongoing wellness and quality of life, as well as limiting frequent hospitalisations.  Pulmonary rehabilitation should be essential for all patients.  It was a great help for me.

Because I have participated in rehabilitation - I bring some first hand knowledge and some benefits of my experience over the past 15 years or so - I am happy to say without re-admission to hospital.

I have participated in two forms of rehabilitation - dating back to 1991 following heart surgery and more recently in 1998 following being diagnosed with emphysema (COPD).

Like most people I wrestled with my respiratory conditions for a few years until, while in conversation with a friend, who is a member of the AIR CLUB (a LUNG-NET support group) was extended an invitation to join and attend a one day rehabilitation refresher to be held at the Repatriation General Hospital.  I eagerly accepted both.  The presentations were so informative and professional that I decided to enroll for the full program as soon as possible.

The next 8 weeks were full of helpful information to increase understanding of COPD, medications, handling anxiety and depression, as well as some self management tips.  Another important element of this program was the well supervised introduction and long term benefits of a regular exercise program.  The importance of this activity can not be understated.

Maintaining physical exercise has become a regular part of my routine, both walking and in a group situation at a nearby gym, to work under the supervision of a qualified instructor.  By joining a group it encourages ongoing incentive to continue the program and a certain amount of social contact.

Exercising has enabled me to remain active in the community, helping others both physically as well as by serving on various committees to establish pathways for consumers to regain fitness in the best possible way.

Finally, I enjoy the challenge of working with and following the paths of progress on projects which will assist people on the path to wellness and improved lifestyle.

Content updated April 28, 2008