COPD360social welcomes new member Heidi_Cope who joins 65,449 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿฑ Happy Hug Your Cat Day! ๐Ÿฑ

Today, let's celebrate the cats that bring comfort, companionship, and plenty of personality into our lives.

Living with COPD, caring for someone who does, or managing a chronic condition can make some days more challenging than others. During those times, comfort can come from the simplest placesโ€”a warm purring cat curled up in your lap, a gentle nudge for attention, or a furry friend stretched out nearby reminding you to slow down and take a moment for yourself.

Cats seem to have mastered the art of relaxation. They find the sunny spot, settle into their favorite chair, take a well-earned nap, and enjoy the moment. Maybe today we can learn a little from them. Take a few extra minutes to rest, relax, and breathe. Sometimes that small pause can make a big difference on a difficult day.

And while we're celebrating the cats who are with us today, let's also take a moment to remember the beloved pets who now live on in our memories. The pawprints they left on our hearts stay with us forever, and thinking of those special companions can still bring a smile when we need one most.

We'd love to see your catsโ€”both past and present! Share a photo, tell us their name, or share a favorite memory. Whether they're curled up beside you right now or remembered fondly in your heart, let's celebrate the comfort and joy they bring to our lives.

๐Ÿ“ธ Cat lovers, today is your day!

2 hours ago

Misty Green COPDF Research

Misty Green COPDF ResearchRELIANCE Participant Townhall


Youโ€™re invited! Please join the lead study doctors and the COPD Foundation on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 at 10:30am Central Time for a virtual RELIANCE Townhall Meeting! This meeting is being presented for participants of the RELIANCE COPD study. We will cover an overview of the study design, what Investigators are doing now since the last follow-up visit was completed on February 28, and how we plan to share the results of the study with you.


We hope to see you there!Link to register: https://nam04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fuic.zoom.us%2Fmeeting%2Fregister%2FqBdZOJl3TX2Gc1FUsMRq9w&data=05%7C02%7Cmgreen%40copdfoundation.org%7C20a7147b28cf433959ba08debff47eb9%7C419bb2dd6a2f420b9d1f41ce82cdcbd0%7C0%7C0%7C639159254452641020%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tGxS3C8y%2FiUHiAx8wGhz9JnFgzwG88rwZqePSOZvrPg%3D&reserved=0


After you register, you will automatically be sent an email with a link you can use to join the meeting on June 9. You can register and join the meeting anytime until it ends.

3 days ago

Kalli Mago (COPDF Communications Coordinator)

Kalli Mago (COPDF Communications Coordinator)asked the question: Check-in: How do I prepare for a natural disaster with COPD?

June is National Safety Month. One important way to stay safe is to prepare in case of an emergency. In 2025, the U.S. had 23 weather-related disasters , which caused almost 300 deaths. 1 Even more people were hurt or lost their homes. Many lost access …

3 minutes ago

brydy

brydy

Hi everyone! thxs to awesome Brandon for recovering my account. took a little break from all things virtual but missed you guys ๐Ÿ˜„ hope everyone is doing well & yay for the end of winter, baseball back in full swing even if my jays are having a terrible season & stanley cup playoffs. sounds so weird doesnt it, hockey & baseball at the same time lol. 

33 minutes ago

  • NewestOldest
  • Coach Brandon - Community ManagerSame as above, Welcome back, Brydy! ๐Ÿ’™ It's so good to see you again.

    I hope you've been doing well while you've been away. Things just seem a little brighter when familiar friends stop back in and say hello. We're glad you're here, and we look forward to catching up and hearing how you've been.

    Welcome home! ๐Ÿ˜Š23 minutes ago
  • das23Great to see you back brydy..Looks like an exciting Cup. Fun to watch when you don't care who wins--No stress!!!!  Yes--Sox and Jays-Not so good this year-oh well........โœŒ21 minutes ago
David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Need help please

This sounds like a difficult situation. Most hospitals have a patient advocate/chaplain or other people that can be brought into the conversation. Being on a ventilator long term is something most papteints do not want (but some are OK with it). In my …
WildebeestJazzybean also answered the question Wildebeestand 1 other also answered the question

40 minutes ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonMissing zippitty again also doo dah as well.

2 hours ago

Marie-Pam

Marie-Pam

In changing inhalers I stopped doing an inhaler for the last 4 days.. I am breathing fine, my 02 level is good.  I wondering if I should take breaks from doing these inhalers. I am 77 yrs old and work hard at staying healthy.  Except for my emphysema I am healthy.. These steroid inhalers dropped your immune system and being old my immune system is already lower than when I was younger...are their any studies on once in awhile stopping doing your inhaler?

3 hours ago

Steveboy

Steveboyasked the question: Need help please

hi my dad was taken into hospital for an operation on this foot that went fine when he was in there he got pneumonia (hap) has copd and was having trouble breathing so they put him on a ventilator and sedated him his oxygen was on 200% itโ€™s now on 50% …

5 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐ŸŸข๐ŸŸข๐ŸŸขGREEN SMOOTHIE๐ŸŸข๐ŸŸข๐ŸŸข2 cups packed baby spinach leaves 1 cup unsweetened almond milk 1 small ripe banana1/2 cup frozen mango chunks1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks 1 tbsp. chia seedsPlace all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth,...

6 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainIt's Thursday, friends! Let us not forget that each person is unique. None of us will "fit the mold" exactly...
One step after another. We manage our conditions, following our doctors' advice. We "think through before we do." We are proud of each others' accomplishments! They encourage us to keep moving forward. 
I hope I have put a smile on everyone's face! Thank you for reading my post. You have put a smile on my face! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

10 hours ago

GAnne

GAnneanswered the question Check-in: How can I exercise safely when I have COPD?

I have a pass walker that i use everyday.I started out at 4000 steps a day after pulumnary rehab, now I stop at 3000 steps. Some days I will do small 2 lb weight At 12 reps and 4 different exercise. I know itโ€™s good to do this, but as far as maintaining …
JohnU1WildebeestCaroline West Virginia State Captainand 2 others also answered the question JohnU1and 4 others also answered the question

19 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธRASPBERRY BALSAMIC CHICKEN๐Ÿ”ถ๏ธ1 tsp. vegetable oil 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion 1 1/2 tsp. fresh thyme leaves 1/2 tsp. salt, divided Four 4- to 6-ounce boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1/3 cup seedless raspberry preserves2 tbsp. balsamic...

1 day ago

Lucy k

Lucy k

I'm good because my friend in Wellington NZ had reminded me that every day is a good time not a long time.  One day at a time 

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Wonderful Wednesday, dear friends! 
I hope you all will enjoy your day! Let's keep those positive outlooks going strong, and wear those great big smiles! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

1 day ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonOne more radiation session done ,last one on Friday,,really has been a non event so anyone scheduled for this need not worry to much.

1 day ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager๐ŸŒณ VMCOTWW Sneak Peek for Tomorrow! โ˜€

Tomorrow's Visit My Corner of the World Wednesday will be all about our favorite summer spots!

As the temperatures begin to rise, many of us find ourselves looking for those comfortable places where we can relax, recharge, and enjoy the season. For those living with COPD, a shady spot, a cool breeze, a favorite chair on the porch, or even a comfortable place by the window can make all the difference on a warm day.

๐Ÿ“ธ Tomorrow, we'll be inviting everyone to share a photo of their favorite summer retreat from their corner of the world. It might be a backyard oasis, a garden bench, a fishing spot, a lakeside view, a front porch, or simply a place where you can put your feet up and enjoy a peaceful moment.

COPD often teaches us to appreciate the little thingsโ€”comfortable places, good company, fresh air, and moments that help us slow down and enjoy the day.

So start looking through your photos or keep your camera handy! We can't wait to see the special places that help you stay cool, comfortable, and smiling during the summer months.

๐ŸŒž What spot helps you relax, recharge, or escape the heat when summer arrives?

We'll see you tomorrow for VMCOTWW! ๐Ÿ“ธ๐ŸŒณ๐Ÿ’™

1 day ago

COPD Foundation Website Notifications

COPD Foundation Website Notificationsadded a new article Ajobo Taiwo

Welcome our newest COPD Foundation Captain!

2 days ago

COPD Foundation Website Notifications

COPD Foundation Website Notificationsadded a new article Oksana Viltsaniuk

Welcome our newest COPD Foundation Captain!

2 days ago

COPD Foundation Website Notifications

COPD Foundation Website Notificationsadded a new article Sean Patrick Smith

Welcome our newest COPD Foundation Captain!

2 days ago

Penny Price

Penny Price

I have to decide if I want to get a lobectomy done on my left lung or a lung transplant.  Can i hear about experience with both of these?  Pain , downtime etc.  What questions should I ask my lung surgeon when I am suppose to meet next month with him with my answer on what surgery I want to do.  I'm scared and lost right now so please help me if you have had either of these done to you.    

2 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • WildebeestI have no advice as I have no personal experience of anything like such an issue or decision. The main point that jumps out at me, though, is the availability of a donor lung and how long the wait might be for that. If it were me I think I would be wanting to discuss the likely disease trajectory while waiting for a donor lung. It may be preferable to have a lobectomy done sooner, while you are in good health, compared to a transplant (or lobectomy done later if you can't wait any longer) when you might be in a less good condition. That would of course depend to some degree on the relative merits of a lobectomy vs lung transplant. I hope things go well whatever you decide.1 day ago
  • Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainI'd like to make another suggestion -  has your pulmonologist mentioned endobronchoscopic valve reduction?  If not, ask whether you are a candidate for that procedure - it basically works the same as a lobectomy, but is less invasive.  That is, if the lobectomy is being suggested as a way to treat air-trapping, making it easier for you to breathe.  If you have lung cancer, then a lobectomy would be done, not the valves.1 day ago
  • Caroline West Virginia State CaptainHi Penny, I would caution you to check the side effects of a lung transplant vs a lobectomy. This might help with your decision. Also, check the average life expectancy for both procedures.3 hours ago
Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ Itโ€™s Leave the Office Early Day! ๐ŸŒž

Today is Leave the Office Early Day, and while many of us may not be heading out of a traditional office, it's a great reminder that sometimes it's okay to step away, slow down, and give ourselves a little extra time to recharge.

For those living with COPD, bronchiectasis, or NTMโ€”and for the caregivers, family members, and friends who support themโ€”some days can feel like a full-time job all on their own. Between appointments, treatments, medications, oxygen equipment, caregiving responsibilities, and everyday life, there is always something waiting on the to-do list.

So today, if you can, give yourself permission to "leave early" from something:

โ˜• Leave the dishes for later.
๐Ÿ“ฑ Put down the phone for a while.
๐Ÿ“บ Turn off the news a little sooner.
๐ŸŒณ Sit outside and enjoy the sunshine.
๐Ÿพ Spend a few extra minutes with a pet.
๐Ÿ“– Read a chapter of a favorite book.
๐Ÿ’™ Or simply rest without feeling guilty about it.

Taking care of yourself isn't being lazyโ€”it's part of staying healthy and keeping your tank full.

If you could leave one thing behind a little early today, what would it be? And how would you spend that extra time?

Let's hear your ideas and maybe inspire each other to carve out a few moments for ourselves today. ๐Ÿ˜Š๐ŸŒž๐Ÿ’™

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captaincommented onEating Well: From Debbie Bโ€™s Kitchen to Yours

๐Ÿ˜PICKLE SALSA๐Ÿ˜1 cup diced dill pickles 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper 2 tbsp. diced onion1 tbsp. diced cubanelle pepper 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tbsp. chopped cilantro 1 tsp. lime juice1 tsp. dill pickle brine (from jar)In a large...

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHello Tuesday, and hello friends! 
Today I choose to have an awesome day, and I hope this is your choice, as well! 
Keep those positive vibes going strong! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐Ÿคฉ

2 days ago

SJNeedsANap

SJNeedsANapanswered the question Does anyone know what to expect now?

Stage 3 here. I canโ€™t offer advice, but just wanted to say that I am so, so sorry that you and your dad are going through this. I cannot imagine how difficult this is for you.
David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )Phyliss DiLorenzo NJ State CaptainBob puff dragonand 2 others also answered the question David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )and 4 others also answered the question

2 days ago

Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)

Jonnie Korinko (COPDF Director of Education)answered the question What can I do now, to help future me?

Hi BlueSky! Welcome to the community! I hope that you find support as you navigate your diagnosis. Here are a few resources for you: Here is a podcast episode about a new diagnosis Here is a YouTube playlist, called Medical Minute , that …
ktm390 BareDavid Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )and 3 others also answered the question ktm390 and 5 others also answered the question

2 days ago

Big50

Big50

Feeling like crap

2 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿ’™ Because No One Should Have to Spend Years Searching for Answers

Many of us know what it's like to spend monthsโ€”or even yearsโ€”looking for answers about our breathing, coughing, fatigue, or recurring respiratory infections.

Recently, Ty Pennington shared his mother's story and the long journey that led to her bronchiectasis diagnosis. It serves as an important reminder that sometimes respiratory symptoms can have more than one cause, and finding the right diagnosis can make a world of difference.

๐Ÿ“บ Watch Ty's story here:

https://abcnews.com/video/132921581/

One of the most powerful things about sharing our stories is that they help others recognize their own experiences. A conversation can encourage someone to ask a question, seek a second opinion, or learn about a condition they may not have heard of before.

If you've been struggling with symptoms that don't seem fully explained, don't be afraid to continue the conversation with your healthcare team. Asking questions and advocating for yourself can be an important part of finding answers.

And remember, you don't have to do it alone.

If you'd like to learn more about bronchiectasis and NTM, or connect with others living with these conditions, we encourage you to visit the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association community, where you'll find education, resources, and people who understand the journey.

Have you ever experienced a delay in getting a diagnosis or finding answers about your lung health? We'd love to hear your story.

2 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonAnother sunny day on the coast and banana bread in the oven,,,could life get any better,l think not.Good breaths all around for 360 members.

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainWishing everyone here on 360Social an AWESOME day! ๐Ÿ˜€๐ŸŒž

3 days ago

Medical Advice

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. We make every effort to support our members, our medical professionals cannot and will not provide a diagnosis or suggest a specific medication; those decisions should be left to your personal medical team. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with COPD, please consult a physician before making changes to your own COPD management plan.