Love your lungs, breathe for life

Published: November 10, 2009

Editor:

Have you ever been in the company of a person with COPD/Emphysema while they're trying to get a breath of air? Have you wondered what it must be like to struggle to get that air into your lungs?

I witnessed my dad gasping for a breath of air while doing something as simple as eating dinner. Believe me, it's a vision I will never forget.

My dad, Wayne A. Litzenberger lost his 13 year battle to COPD/Emphysema on December 26, 2003.

Try this: Hold your nose and breathe through a straw. Did you feel like you couldn't get enough air into your lungs? Did you feel like you were suffocating?

That's how more than 12 million people feel every day as they cope with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease; now the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, causing more than three million deaths every year.

COPD is an umbrella term for Emphysema and Chronic Bronchitis; a debilitating lung disease which makes the individual "breathless," not able to exhale carbon dioxide and inhale oxygen.

November is COPD Awareness Month; a time to educate yourself and spread your knowledge about this devastating lung disease. If you have symptoms, such as coughing, bringing up sputum, and shortness of breath during exertion see a doctor for a simple breathing test. COPD is not curable but is treatable when diagnosed in the early stages â€¦ leading to earlier treatment and a higher quality of life.

Nov. 18 will mark the eighth annual World COPD Day. On this important day, lung disease organizations, COPD patients, and the general public from countries all around the globe will sponsor activities such as; health fairs, "Breath of Life" walks, and media interviews.

As Gold Ribbons are a symbol of COPD Awareness won't you show your support by wearing a gold ribbon throughout the month of November; possibly in memory of a loved one who has passed on from COPD or in honor of an individual coping every day with this "breathless" disease? See my Web site below to purchase the COPD Gold Ribbon Lapel Pin and the Smoke-free Living Lapel Pin.

The Great American Smokeout on Nov. 19 will draw attention to the deaths and chronic lung diseases caused by smoking. Smokers across the nation will take part by smoking less or quitting for the day. This event is a way to challenge people to stop using tobacco and raise awareness of the many ways to quit for good. Many communities and local volunteer support quitters, will publicize the event and press for laws that will control tobacco use and discourage teens from lighting up.

Kick the buttsâ€¦ Live a smoke-free life.

Lori Palermo

Gouldsboro