COPD360social welcomes new member Reese J. Stone who joins 65,600 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager๐ŸŒŽ Visit My Corner of the World Wednesday ๐ŸŒŽ

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Did you know Wednesday is also Swim a Lap Day? ๐ŸŠ

That got me thinking...

Life isn't always about how fast we're moving. Sometimes it's simply about continuing to move forward, one lap, one step, and one day at a time.

Living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, or caring for someone you love can bring challenges, unexpected turns, and days when the water feels a little rougher than usual.

But most of us have something that helps keep us going.

Maybe it's a loyal pet waiting to greet you.
๐Ÿพ A spouse, partner, or friend.
๐ŸŒฑ A garden you've nurtured.
๐ŸŽจ A favorite hobby.
โ˜• Your morning coffee.
๐Ÿ‘ง A grandchild's artwork on the refrigerator.
๐ŸŒ… A sunrise that reminds you a new day has begun.

For this week's Visit My Corner of the World Wednesday, I'd love to see a photo of something that helps keep you moving forward.

๐Ÿ“ธ When the water gets rough, what helps you keep swimming?

Share a photo from your corner of the world and tell us a little about what motivates, inspires, comforts, or encourages you.

Lets start:

๐Ÿ’™ What keeps me going is ____________________.

We can't wait to see the people, places, pets, hobbies, and moments that help make your journey a little brighter.

Let's travel around the world togetherโ€”one photo, one story, and one smile at a time. ๐ŸŒŽ๐Ÿ’™

4 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

โŒจ๏ธ Happy Typewriter Day, COPD360social!

Long before texts, emails, and social media, people shared their stories one keystroke at a time on a typewriter.

Each letter mattered.
Each word mattered.
And every page told a story.

In many ways, living with COPD is a little like that.

We don't write our stories all at once. They're built one breath, one day, one challenge, and one victory at a time. Some pages are tougher than others, but every page becomes part of the story that makes us who we are.

One of the things that makes this community so special is that we're all writing different chapters, yet we learn from one another every day.

So on this Typewriter Day, we'd love to hear from you:

๐Ÿ“ If you could type one sentence for someone living with COPD to read today, what would it say?

Maybe it's a lesson you've learned.
Maybe it's encouragement that helped you through a tough time.
Maybe it's a reminder you still carry with you today.

We'll start with this:

"Keep goingโ€”some of your strongest chapters haven't been written yet."

Now it's your turn. Add your sentence in the comments and let's create a page filled with hope, wisdom, humor, and encouragement for anyone who needs it today. โค

โŒจ๏ธ And for a little extra fun: Did you ever use a typewriter? Tell us about it! Bonus points if you still have one tucked away somewhere.

16 hours ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

I got good news today from my pulmonologist. I am a good candidate for the Zephyr valves. Due to a pre-planned trip that I have scheduled  in July and one that my daughter has in August, the earliest I can schedule it is the last week of August or early September (she lives out of state, but will come to be with me). My right upper lobe and left upper lobe are the worst lobes of my lungs.  He's going to do the right upper first, and then if all works out well, will do the left one later - maybe a year from now. 


So, now all I've got to do is to not get nervous for the next couple of months, LOL.

5 hours ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article COPD Captains Spotlight: Prince Osei Poku, COPD Foundation Captain from Ghana, West Africa

This article was written by Bailey McCrary.

Chronic lung conditions impact people all around the world, and the COPD Foundation partners with volunteers both within and outside the United States to help make things better for those affected. While different countries may face very different types of issues, the needs felt by those with chronic lung conditions are often similar.

We asked some questions of one international COPD Foundation volunteer making an important impact outside the United States. The following is an interview with Prince Osei Poku, who serves as the COPD Foundation Captain from Ghana. His role is driven by a personal mission to improve lung health care for all.

Who are you and how does your background connect to lung health advocacy?

I am Prince Osei Poku, a pulmonary disease advocate and COPD Foundation Captain from Ghana, West Africa.

I am an Administrator for Asthma Ghana, a Pharmacy Technologist, and a Sustainable Procurement Practitioner with some years in the National Ambulance Service of Ghana. Iโ€™ve worked with patients with chronic respiratory diseases in West Africa where lung health care can be very expensive, and access is limited, especially the primary health care settings. Thankfully, through advocacy for increased access to lung health care, things are beginning to change for patients.

What

8 hours ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article People lack critical information about wildfire smoke risks

New research reveals gaps in wildfire smoke education, highlights need to better protect vulnerable populations

Miami (June 23, 2026) - Wildfire smoke can trigger breathing problems and flare-ups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), yet many people are not receiving the trusted health information they need to stay safe, according to a new study in the May 2026 issue of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation, a peer-reviewed, open access journal.

14 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐Ÿ…๐Ÿ…๐ŸŒฑTOMATO TART๐Ÿ…๐Ÿ…๐ŸŒฑ12 sheets phyllo dough (14 x 9 inches)2 tbsp. olive oil, divided 2 tbsp. bread crumbs, divided 2 tbsp. pesto3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese, divided 1 medium tomato, cut into 1/4-inch slices1 large yellow tomato, cut into...

18 hours ago

Min glo

Min glo

Good Morning all,new member just saying hi

18 hours ago

DannyJO

DannyJO

Hi, Could you possibly help with some advice. I have COPD, and I have it really bad. I cannot walk, not even a few meters without almost collapsing from no breath. Any movement that requires a bit of force causes major flare ups. The paramedics that stabilized me,  Took over an hour just to get me breathing unassisted. I was given blood pressure meds, a cortisone inhaler, a ventolin inhaler, and ampules (Iprabut), they help alot, but dont relax the flare ups. My lungs and throat feel like bricks when I try stand. I need something that I can do to help me breath better, as I cannot afford the scans and the advanced meds

19 hours ago

DannyJO

DannyJO

Hi everyone. I have been diagnosed recently with level 3 or 4 COPD. I need to go for the CT scan and the echo sound to see how bad it is. At this moment its about confusion and a little fear

19 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainGood morning to all the early birds, and happy Tuesday! Doesn't matter when you stop by. We're always happy to see you here on 360Social! ๐Ÿ˜€
Wishing everyone a wonderful day! ๐Ÿ˜Š

22 hours ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Anybody feeling their breath catching in throat?

That is not a typical complaint. Have you been evaluated for vocal cord dysfunction? (ear, nose and throat doctor would need to take a look). This is typically addressed with speech therapy/ breathing exercises. https://www.aaaai.org/conditions …
Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain also answered the question

1 day ago

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )

David Mannino, MD (Chief Medical Officer, COPD Foundation )answered the question Does pulmonary rehab help?

Yes. I try to get all of my patients to pulmonary rehab. The only complaint I have consistently heard has been "why did I not do this earlier?"
BarePhyliss DiLorenzo NJ State CaptainCaroline West Virginia State Captainand 2 others also answered the question Bareand 4 others also answered the question

1 day ago

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

HIcopd - Hawaii State Captain

Iโ€™m relieved and proud I finally removed the worn out velcro strip on my Inogen backpack and replaced it with a sturdy but flexible piece of wire. Now the tubing stays put instead of getting caught and dragging on the ground. 


Sure wish I had done it ages ago but better now than later. Haha!  Itโ€™s funny how just tiny changes can really improve things!

1 day ago

CareGiveLove4DadNH

CareGiveLove4DadNH

๐Ÿ˜’ A bit overwhelmed yet making the best of this end of life hospice journey caring for my dad today. #OneSecondAtATime #IWillNotTryToDoEverythingToday #WeStillHaveToday

1 day ago

BlueSky

BlueSkyasked the question: Anybody feeling their breath catching in throat?

Occasionally I have a feeling as though my breath has caught in my throat as I breathe in, udually when laughing or talking. Afterwards there'll be a soreness in my chest and my voice is hoarse for a while, then returns to normal. Im still finding out …

1 day ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿง… Happy Onion Ring Day, COPD360social!

It's Monday, and apparently it's National Onion Ring Day โ€” which got me thinking...

Much like an onion ring, life with COPD can come with a few layers:
๐Ÿง… Medications and treatments
๐Ÿง… Doctor appointments
๐Ÿง… Oxygen equipment and supplies
๐Ÿง… Exercise and pulmonary rehab
๐Ÿง… Family, friends, and caregivers
๐Ÿง… Finding time for yourself

Some days it can feel like a lot.

But just like a basket of onion rings, you don't have to tackle every layer all at once. Sometimes the best approach is taking things one ring at a time.

As we kick off a new week, what's one thing you're focusing on this week?

๐Ÿ’™ A walk around the block?
๐Ÿงก Staying on top of treatments?
๐Ÿ’™ Drinking more water?
๐Ÿงก Spending time with family?
๐Ÿ’™ Simply making it through a challenging day?

Drop your answer below and let's cheer each other on.

And while we're at it...

๐Ÿฝ๏ธ Quick Monday Poll:

Are onion rings a:
๐Ÿ‘ Must-have favorite
โค Occasional treat
๐Ÿ˜‚ Not for me

Here's to a week with a little crunch, a little flavor, and plenty of support from your COPD360social family.

1 day ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manageranswered the question I am looking for an affordable Online Pharmacy USA for my Spiriva.

If you're looking for ways to save money on medications, one resource Iโ€™ve felt comfortable recommending is Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drug Company. They focus on transparent pricing and can sometimes offer significant savings on many generic medications. …
Webbgirl028joshepmilton2203and 1 other also answered the question Webbgirl028and 3 others also answered the question

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐ŸŸฉPICKLED CUBANELLE PEPPERS๐ŸŸฉ4 large cubanelle peppers2 1/2 cups water2 cups white vinegar 2 tbsp. salt1/2 tsp. minced garlic Microwave the water in a large bowl until almost boiling. Meanwhile, slice the peppers into 1/4-inch rings.Place the...

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainYes! It's Monday! We are SO ready to start our day with a positive outlook! Put a smile on your face, and you're good to go! ๐Ÿ˜€
Have an awesome, easy breathing day, friends! ๐Ÿ˜Š

1 day ago

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State Captain

Happy Father's Day to all of our 360Social Members Dads, Granddads, and Great-Grandads,.Please cick on the link.
https://bmacards.com/qP2bk8

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy First Day of Summer! ๐ŸŒž 
Time to get into that grillin' and chillin' mode! ๐Ÿ˜Ž

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Father's Day! 
To all the Dads, Step-Dads, Pet Dads, and Grand Dads: May today be the best day ever! The stuff dreams are made of! ๐Ÿ’™๐Ÿฉต๐Ÿ’œ

2 days ago

acknowleged1

acknowleged1

 Hello daz23I am not a USA citizen, being an immigrant to Australia. I discovered COPD in 2000 when my doctor recommended some kind of inhaler treatement for 12 months. It didn't work. I am not complaining. You are a fire fighter, I admit I smoked for some 30 years and then gave it up 40 years ago. I now discover I am COPD. You say - moderate - what does that mean? please? I am desperate to know the "determination" of what this means. My doctor will not talk about my condition very much which leaves me in a quandary. I will not say "own" because you can't "own" any living thing, it is a matter o f agreement. I am responsible for feeding and caring for very large animals - I panick when the winter months come on as this severely impedes my breathing ability. What is the lifespan of people like us?  I do not ask out of morbid curiosity but as a responsible person who has the care of large animals. I am responsible for their well-being. Human doctors do not appear to care about this, merely about my condition. That is not good enough is it? I can't look after them like I used to, but they have the best of food, they have very clean water. I spend as much time with them as I am able - breathing allowing. Please do not brush me off like my doctor does. Please be kind and answer honestly. Because that is the kindest thing to do. You are a fire fighter - therefore, you are kind, you are caring, you are the very best of us. I know that. So please, answer me honestly. 

3 days ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainI have a question, just out of curiosity. 
    acknowleged1โ€‹: Are you a zookeeper?2 days ago
  • Karen Deitemeyer - Florida State CaptainWelcome acknowleged1โ€‹   If your doctor isn't answering your questions, and is brushing you off, perhaps it' s time to ind another doctor?  And if your current doctor is not a pulmonologist (lung specialist) then you need to make an appointment with one in order to find out exactly what condition your lungs are in and what medications will help you to breathe better.  And ask about a referral to pulmonary rehabilitation.  I'm glad you found us.2 days ago
  • HIcopd - Hawaii State CaptainWelcome!  There really is no one who can accurately tell us how long or well we will live. In 2000, I was told I had moderate to severe COPD and should get my affairs in order because I might not live long. Iโ€™m still here 26 years later and just returned from an amazing trip to NYC, Scandinavia & Tokyo. 


    Yes, my lungs are a bit worse than 26 years ago and I am using different treatments but I am still living a great life and if you work closely either a great medical team, you can live your best life!


    I agree with the othersโ€”learn all you can, work with a good lung doc and ask about pulmonary rehabilitation. 2 days ago
acknowleged1

acknowleged1

Is this strictly a USA website. I am from Australia. I don't seem able to locate any support groups. I was diagnosed in 2000. I use an inhaler; the cold months make it difficult for me to breathe. I am not complaining, but, others depend upon me. I am sure this is a concern of many of you. If I die, then, what happens to those depending upon me? I don't know what to do. My symptoms get worse in the winter months, and I admit to panicking. But, there again, it is their lives that are in jeopardy as well as mine. I need to be able to do the things I was able to do, if only by halves. Their lives depend upon me. Can anyone help me please? 

3 days ago

acknowleged1

acknowleged1

I am not doing too well today. Does anyone know how to make COPD better, so that one can breathe and able to do the things they used to? 

3 days ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager๐Ÿ’™ Happy Father's Day from COPD360social ๐Ÿ’™

This weekend we celebrate all the people who show up with strength, patience, encouragement, and heart.

Whether you're a father, grandfather, stepfather, uncle, mentor, caregiver, friend, or someone who simply stepped in when you were needed mostโ€”thank you.

Living with COPD or another lung condition often means facing challenges that aren't always visible. Having someone by your side to listen, lend a hand, share a laugh, offer encouragement, or simply be present can make a world of difference.

Today, we're celebrating every person who has filled that role in someone's life.

๐Ÿ’™ Who is someone who has been a guiding presence, source of support, or role model for you?

Feel free to share a memory, a photo, or a few words of appreciation below. We'd love to celebrate them with you.

3 days ago

Navywife2

Navywife2

Thank you all for the welcome. I also use an oximeter 2 or 4 times a day. My rate rarely drops below 97, over the years I have relegated myself to sitting a lot more than walking. I am very lucky that my youngest son and his wife and kids do just about everything for me.  We live together and they cook, shop,etc. 
Hope you all have a grest weekend 

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.