I was diagnosed with copd in 1992. My doctor said I had to stop smoking, but I just brushed that off and went on just like nothing had happened. I was a big smoker of (Pall Mall). Everything I did called for a smoke. I continued on this way for a year or so. Then the big pneumonia came on the scene. I thought I was going to die. I sat at my kitchen table and smoked a cigarette before I went to ER. I was put in the hospital and that was the last cigarette I ever had. That was almost 12 years ago.

I had the most terrible depression. Deep dark depression on and off for a long time. I finally with help from above, over come that. The cravings would still would come every once in a while.

Then two years ago I got a computer and I found our Copd group. That is the best thing ever. I learned so much from that group. Then I was ask to join the Lively Loungers. This is a great group and we have fun. That is what we need.

I am at a place now that I am on 02 all the time. I take the meds just like everybody else. I can walk but not very far. I can do a few thing, but not many.

I would like to tell you about my care giver. His name is Ernest, I call him Dad, He is a wonderful husband and father along with taking care of me. He is a minister and has been from the beginning of our marriage. He has learned to do all the thing to the house that I use to do. He has made a very good cook. He never complains about having to take care of me. He was burned real bad in May of this year, and all he could think about was, Who is going to take care of Mom. That is what he calls me. Well Mom had to just get up and do. It was puff, and rest, but I made it. He is back home now and we are doing together.

I am just 64 years old and I plan on being around for a long time yet. Dad and I share a lot. We are very happy. Dad does a lot of reading and I spend a lot of time on the computer. When the weather is good we like to travel.

Even though I have copd, I live a wonderful life. Dad and I are pictured below.