As part of World COPD Awareness Month we hear from Robert who is supported by our Hospice teams within the community. 

Robert was diagnosed with emphysema and plural plaques (asbestos in the lungs) in 2012 aged 55. COPD – Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – is the name for a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties.

Robert said: “It can be scary sometimes when I can’t get my breath and difficult to breathe. 

“The support we have received from the Hospice has been amazing. The Strathcarron staff are all gems, I can’t sing their praises high enough. There is a real calmness to the Strathcarron staff - they really are fantastic.

“The Hospice Live Your Life Team have been brilliant and it is good to be able to talk to a real person over the phone when you have questions.”

Robert is also a member of our men’s online community group ‘The Happy Mondays’ where they meet via Zoom and have a cuppa and chat.

He adds: “I have been part of the group for a year now and really look forward to it. We have built up nice friendships even though we are all spread out across various locations.

“I get a lot of enjoyment from our catch ups hearing everyone’s news. There is a level of understanding there which is supportive as we can share our experiences about our illnesses and the challenges we are having.”

Breathlessness

If you suffer from breathlessness as part of your condition, our Allied Health Professionals team recommend the following tips to help alleviate symptoms:

 

Did you know that approximately 80% of the work of the Hospice takes place within our local communities?

Find out more: In Our Community