Vancouver,
WA
wehrman@hawaii.edu
As a respiratory therapist and State Captain for Washington, I hope to create a state network of like-minded individuals, coordinate resources, increase the number of support groups and provide rural outreach programs, raise governmental awareness and get more resources to help those living with COPD. I am also writing a book called, “How to Improve Your Lungs at Home in 12 weeks”.
As a COPD advocate, I have met, called, and emailed my elected officials. Additionally, I have participated in health fairs and community events to promote COPD awareness, have written about COPD in a local newspaper, and have spoken to my family and friends about COPD.
As a State Captain, my interests include providing improved access to underserved COPD patients, recruiting new State Captains and volunteers, and by connecting others in the COPD community to the resources available so they can live healthier and fuller lives.
My proudest COPD moment has been helping get CMS to approve Spiriva for my mother and helping to start a pulmonary rehab program for Hawaii.
My inspiration to share is, “Life is not measured by the breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” I also believe this Hawaiian phrase, “I Ka Hanu O Ke Ola”, which in English means "In breath is life". This is the motto of my respiratory program.