I was first diagnosed with emphysema in 2007/2008. I had been having some issues with pleurisy. As anyone who has had it knows, it can be very painful.
My physician decided to do a chest X-ray. I received a call, and she told me the results: I had beginning-stage emphysema and some scar tissue indicating possible prior pneumonia. I was surprised, as I didn't have symptoms like shortness of breath. My grandfather had emphysema, and I watched his struggle to breathe.
For the next few years, I was good, with no symptoms. In 2009, I was diagnosed with heart disease and had a stent placed.
Still feeling optimistic, I was working at a small retail dress shop after semi-retiring from finance and costing work.
In 2010, I retired to become a daycare provider for my grandchildren. All was well.
In 2016, during a routine well check with my physician, she mentioned a low-dose CT scan that the American Lung Association and radiology associations recommend for people who smoked for 30 years or more. I was a smoker, so I agreed to have one.
The following day after the CT scan, my physician called me and told me there was something seen on the scan that was concerning. I was referred to a pulmonologist, who didn't see me but referred me to a thoracic surgeon. Another scan, called a PET scan, looked at it in more depth. It looked like cancer.
I was diagnosed with lung cancer. I was extremely full of fear and anxiety, but with my family's support and my husband's support, I underwent a right upper lung lobectomy. It was stage 1 and had not spread to the lymph nodes. Recovery was very difficult, and I was left without much information and little follow-up except with my surgeon.
I finally went back to my primary physician and got help consisting of physical therapy, medication for nerve damage, and eventually a visit to a pulmonologist who worked to find solutions for my COPD, which had worsened after the cancer. I was wheezing, short of breath, and ended up with a paralyzed right diaphragm.
I was given an inhaler and nebulizer and went to respiratory therapy. Then, in 2018, came the lifesaver: a call from the Lung Association smoking cessation program. After an hour-long conversation, I was given more information than ever before. I had stopped smoking, so that was not an issue. It was the information and willingness to help that made the difference.
I joined Better Breathers and then learned about the COPD Foundation. I became a Wisconsin State Captain and started advocating for others. Through trips to Washington, DC, and other advocacy opportunities, I came to truly believe that second chances are an opportunity to give those who can't advocate for themselves a voice and to bring awareness to the community I live in. I want to help others who don't have the knowledge or resources to help themselves.
I was introduced to the Lung Association by a dear friend, John Linnell. He recommended me for the COPD Patient Advisory Board. I am here to honor him and, hopefully, make a difference in COPD awareness and advocacy for those who can't advocate for themselves.
