COPD360social welcomes new member Missa who joins 65,515 current members of our community. Weโ€™re glad you're here!

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐Ÿ’™ Boys and Men Are Struggling in Silence ๐Ÿ’™

This is a topic that has been on my mind lately.

Working with our communities, I have the privilege of talking with people from all walks of life. Some days, those conversations are full of laughter and victories. Other days, they're a reminder that many people are carrying far more than anyone realizes.

Many boys and men are taught to push through, stay strong, and keep their worries to themselves. They take care of others, solve problems, and try not to be a burden. But sometimes that means carrying stress, fear, loneliness, anxiety, grief, or depression in silence.

Living with a chronic lung condition can make that even harder. There are concerns about health, changing abilities, finances, caregiving responsibilities, relationships, and the uncertainty that can come with a diagnosis. Those things can weigh heavily on anyone.

The truth is, you don't have to be in crisis to be struggling.

Maybe you're tired.
Maybe you're worried.
Maybe you're feeling isolated.
Maybe you're just having one of those days where everything feels a little heavier than usual.

If that's you, you're not alone.

One thing we've learned from this community is that connection matters. Sometimes it's a phone call. Sometimes it's sharing a photo. Sometimes it's joining a conversation, attending a support group, or simply reading posts and realizing someone else understands exactly what you're going through.

Strength isn't pretending everything is fine.

Sometimes strength is saying, "I'm having a tough time right now."

So today, let's check in with each other.

๐Ÿ’™ What helps you get through the difficult days?
๐Ÿ’™ What helps you stay connected when you're feeling isolated?

We're glad you're here!

1 day ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments8 comment(s)
  • brydythat was my Dad too Karen & I think is true of many who served. He never talked about it but I learned some from his Mum & found a photo album a few years ago w his unit. I think their time there were so horrific they just had to shut it out as best as they could. im sorry your husband went through it but am glad he had you, silent support is important, understanding without words. ๐Ÿฅฐ22 hours ago
  • Coach Brandon - Community ManagerThe truth is, you don't have to be in crisis to be struggling.

    Sometimes it's not a major event. Sometimes it's the stress that keeps building, the worry you carry quietly, the loneliness that creeps in, or simply feeling exhausted from trying to hold everything together.

    If you're having a difficult time, please know that reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

    If you need someone to talk to, call or text 988 anytime in the United States to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If talking feels difficult, you can also text and communicate that way.

    And if you're not in crisis but could use a friendly conversation, consider reaching out to a trusted friend, family member, support group, healthcare provider, or someone here in our community. 


    Sometimes the most important step is simply letting someone know you're carrying a little more than usual.
    You matter. Your story matters. And you don't have to carry it all by yourself. 18 hours ago
  • Phyliss DiLorenzo NJ State CaptainExcellent post, Brandon. I have known many men like this.  My father, colleagues and patients in my mental health career, and many others.  Thank you for this post.10 hours ago
Misty Green COPDF Research

Misty Green COPDF ResearchAttention- CAREGIVERS and PATIENTS

Take the
Survey: Exploring the Unmet Needs of Patients with Serious Respiratory Illness
and Their Caregivers

Whether you are a person living with a respiratory illness
or caring for someone who is, your perspective makes a real difference. Living
with these conditions can be challenging, and the voices of patients and
caregivers are important. By taking part in this survey, you help others
understand what kinds of care and support matter most. The information you
share will help doctors, nurses, and health leaders improve respiratory care
around the world.

The survey should take about 20 minutes to complete, and
itโ€™s best to finish it in one sitting.  
Take the survey: https://redcap.musc.edu/surveys/?s=LLLEYFNX8D44D7D4

3 days ago

JeanO53

JeanO53answered the question Dry lips cracked in corners

Hi GAnne - If this is an ongoing issue, it may be something to talk about with your doctor. Sometimes it can be taken care of by keeping your lips moisturized. Or it might require an antibiotic. It all depends on the cause - ???
DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain also answered the question

51 minutes ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragon

Debbie l was looking at your flowers and was reminded of a song by Bob Thiele from the sixties recorded by Louise Armstrong.
Think these days we need a little more Louise and a lot less kid rock.
To refresh
I see trees of green
Red roses too
I see them bloom
For me and you
And l think to myself
What a wonderful world


May you have many more days of peaceful gardening and sharing your photo's with the group.

2 hours ago

GAnne

GAnneasked the question: Dry lips cracked in corners

Good afternoon everybody, what is everybody using for dry lips with cracked corners that will help them. Appreciate your help thank you.

2 hours ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonHope we can all handle the challenges of this day and if it's a bad one hold on till a good one comes along.

5 hours ago

Community Announcements

Community Announcementsadded a new article How COPD Affects Menโ€™s Health

This article was written by Kalli Mago.

Studies show men often wait to see the doctor until they have severe symptoms,1 but getting a diagnosis earlier can make a big impact on COPD and other chronic conditions.2

One survey shared that 72% of American men would rather clean the bathroom or mow the lawn than go to a doctor's appointment. Only half said they would see the doctor for a yearly check-up.

In honor of Men's Health Week, we're highlighting health issues that impact millions of men worldwide. This includes common health problems that affect people who have COPD. If you recognize any of the symptoms, talk to your doctor and get the care you need to support your health.

7 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

๐ŸŒน Fluffy Friday Meets Red Rose Day ๐ŸŒน

Happy Fluffy Friday and Happy Red Rose Day!

Today, we're celebrating two things that can brighten almost any day: beautiful roses and our beloved furry (or feathery!) companions. ๐ŸŒน๐Ÿถ๐Ÿฑ๐Ÿฆ

Living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, or caring for someone who does, can sometimes make life feel a little overwhelming. That's why those simple moments matter so muchโ€”a flower blooming in the garden, a wagging tail, a gentle purr, a curious bird, or a nose nudging us to take a break and smile.

So today, let's fill the community with a little extra color and joy!

๐Ÿ“ธ Share a photo of:
๐ŸŒน Your favorite rose or flower
๐Ÿพ Your pet enjoying the day
๐ŸŒน๐Ÿพ Your pet posing with flowers
โค Or anything that brought a smile to your face this week

Sometimes the best medicine isn't found in a bottleโ€”it's found in moments of beauty, connection, and the companions who stick by our side through it all.

We can't wait to see your photos! ๐ŸŒน๐Ÿพ

8 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

โ–ถ๏ธFROZEN FRUIT SMOOTHIEโ—€๏ธ 1 large banana, sliced and frozen 2 cups frozen strawberries, raspberries, or cherries1 cup milk of your choice 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice 2 tbsp. honeyPlace all ingredients in a...

10 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Fluffy Friday, friends!
Here's a close up and personal shot of my cat Punkie. So, so silly! ๐Ÿงก
We are looking forward to seeing pictures of your favorite animal friends!
๐Ÿฆ๐ŸฆHave a wonderful day!๐Ÿฆ๐Ÿฆ

14 hours ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainThis is SO me...

23 hours ago

Coach Brandon - Community Manager

Coach Brandon - Community ManagerWelcome to the COPD360social Yearbook 2026: The Class of Perseverance. ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“ธ๐ŸŒŸ

This week for Visit My Corner of the World Wednesday, we took a fun trip down memory lane. Members shared graduation photos, yearbook pictures, personal achievements, and milestones that have meant something special along their journey.

From high school memories to health and wellness victories, each photo tells a story of perseverance, growth, and determination. While the years, experiences, and paths may be different, it's amazing to see how those journeys have brought us together as a community.

A big thank you to everyone who shared a piece of their story. We loved seeing these snapshots from the past and celebrating the accomplishmentsโ€”both big and smallโ€”that continue to shape who we are today.

๐Ÿ’™ Different years. Different journeys. One community. ๐Ÿ’™

1 day ago

Canders

Canders

Just joined the group looking forward to reading everyoneโ€™s tips on how to cope with this. I work on a commercial fishing boat in Alaska as a captain. So I sit for mostly of my 16 hour shift. I make myself get up and walk and climb as many stairs as possible.  The scary part for me that brings the anxiety is I am hundreds of miles offshore  not real close to medical help. My pulmonologist has prescribed me trellegy and a rescue inhaler. I have not smoked a cigarettes in ten days was a heavy smoker for 25 years 52 years old. The worst part of the whole day for me is getting up in the morning takes a long time to catch my breath causing anxiety. Gets a little better throughout the day. Any tips on sleeping position or different routines would be greatly appreciated ! Hoping that I can learn to live with this continue working and enjoy  sort of the same lifestyle. Glad i joined looking forward to reading everyoneโ€™s stories and tips!

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

โ—ป๏ธโ—ฝ๏ธFROZEN YOGURT BARKโ—ฝ๏ธโ—ป๏ธ2 cups whole milk vanilla yogurt 1/2 cup diced strawberries 1/4 cup blueberries 1/4 cup granola of your choiceLine a 13 x 9-inch rimmed baking sheet with either waxed or parchment paper. Pour the yogurt onto baking...

1 day ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonBig howdy to all the well wishes from yesterday especially you Brandon your sentiment was much appreciated,thank-you all my peeps.
Had all the grandkids around yesterday and watched the constant use of the cell phones,from everyone really not just the kids.
Let's travel back on Sherman's and professor Peabody's way back machine to a time when this was the norm....... 

1 day ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHello friends, and happy Thursday! 
Each and every one of you is special. A very unique, wonderful person! I hope you all know how important you are to me, and to this community!
Go ahead! Take a look in the mirror! You are beautiful! On the outside AND on the inside! ๐Ÿชž 
Thanks for being here with us! You are very much cared for! ๐Ÿ˜Š

1 day ago

Monpren

Monpren

I was diagnosed with COPD this week, and will be having a CT scan in a few days. It seems to be mild but Iโ€™ll know more after the scan. My pulmonologist already has me using a nebulizer and an inhaler, both of which have helped my dyspnea. Iโ€™ve been doing a lot of reading and am understanding what I have to do to manage this. My major concern is that I also have afib that is right now under control but could return. And some heart stiffening which resulted in an episode of diastolic heart failure last summer. I worry a lot about the interaction among these conditions. I quit smoking 30 years ago and am very active at 78z. Any advice?

1 day ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments4 comment(s)
  • MonprenMy PCP gave me a lung function test in January which showed obstruction. I did not believe it and it took me some time to get and see a pulmonologist. He confirmed it and ordered the CT to get more info. Also will do the 6 minute walk and another function test. I havenโ€™t seen my cardiologist yet, and am fortunate to not have high blood pressure. I am curious as to what meds your dr adjusted to lessen the risk of side effects.1 day ago
  • das23Welcome Monpren....Stay active and follow your doctor's advice. Read all the info in the LEARN MORE tab above. Lots of support here. Keep us posted1 day ago
  • Caroline West Virginia State CaptainHi Monpren, I am on Cardizem, Enalapril, and hydrochlorothiazide.  I had an atrioventricular ablation 30 years ago, but after a severe case of pneumonia in which I became septic 3 years ago, the body decided it needed to repair the connection.  At first it would almost fire, but not completely and then the connection was made and I once again have atrial fibrillation.  The Cardizem was added to regulate my heartbeat.


    We are all different, so this combination might not work for you.  I had mentioned it to let you know that there is a way to deal with the heart and the lungs successfully.  I hope that you have a good team who will keep your needs at the forefront.1 day ago
Monpren

Monpren

OK

1 day ago

AllanGD

AllanGD

how do i know if i have copd?

1 day ago

AllanGD

AllanGD

i am coughing

1 day ago

Bare

Bare

Where would I find other Alabama State Captains?

1 day ago

Bare

Bareanswered the question I am Wondering if anyone is using the injection of dupixent and if so is it helpful for better breat

Iโ€™ve been using it for a year & it does help
GAnne also answered the question GAnne also answered the question

2 days ago

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Caroline West Virginia State Captain

Which products were included in the recall?If youโ€™re concerned your pills may be affected, check your Gas-X product against the information listed below. (The lot number will be displayed both on the back of the internal blister pack and on the bottom of the box.) Recalled lots include:Gas-X Extra Strength Softgels, 120-count: UPC 300674350419; Lots TL8K, YH9X, and YH9Y; Expiration date of November 30, 2028; Distributed between April 13, 2026 and May 5, 2026Gas-X Extra Strength Softgels, 72-count: UPC 300439005721; Lot X78N; Expiration date of November 30, 2028; Distributed between May 4, 2026 and May 14, 2026According to the FDA, Haleon is notifying its distributors and customers and is arranging for the return of all recalled products. Haleon also reports that the root cause of the contamination has been identified and repaired, and measures have been taken to prevent it from happening again.What to do if you purchased an affected productIf your product matches one of the lots listed above, stop taking it immediately. To return the product and request reimbursement, contact Haleonโ€™s consumer relations team via email at mystory.us@haleon.com or phone at 1-800-245-1040.If you experience a related adverse event or become aware of one, you should contact your doctor first, then report the reaction to Haleonโ€™s consumer relations team. You can also report adverse events to the FDA using the agencyโ€™s online MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. (Those interested may also report events to the FDA by mail or fax.)

2 days ago

Mom.Ellen

Mom.Ellen

I am so excited to have found this foundation and look forward to sharing my COPD story and hear others' COPD stories.

2 days ago

Dinna25

Dinna25answered the question Getting a nicotine fix with gum or a patch this month?

Hi all Totally agree here's my story of quitting. When i was diagnosed with COPD I was warned about smoking. The consultants words where - How old are you followed by all our tests show your very healthy and fit for your age BUT copd its stage 2 now …
Bill Clark - Community Manager also answered the question Bill Clark - Community Manager also answered the question

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

DebbieB.-Connecticut State CaptainHappy Wednesday!
You get back what you give, is what I've always said. So, give a little kindness, and you will get some in return! One good turn deserves another! Striving for happiness is our goal!
Wishing all of you the best day ever! ๐Ÿ˜€

2 days ago

Bob puff dragon

Bob puff dragonFifty years ago today l said my vows to my wife omg can't believe it has been that long.I made some bad questionable choices in my life but spending our life together was definitely a smart choice.Met her when our band was filling in for a cancelled act at a small rodeo fair and the rest is history,three great kids  ten grandkids our lives have happiness meaning and purpose.
Hoping my family can dial it down a bit on this occasion as l still can't seem to recover very fast from the treatments but l know we are at least doing lunch at our favorite Chinese restaurant,made reservations in March. Consider myself one lucky cowboy for sure.

2 days ago

Richard DJ

Richard DJanswered the question Cheapest place to buy trelegy?

Trelegy Elipta at Costco Pharmacy in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is about US$59
Caretta cellar muddleagedand 6 others also answered the question Caretta and 8 others also answered the question

2 days ago

DebbieB.-Connecticut State Captain

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

๐Ÿซ’๐Ÿซ’GREEN OLIVE CROSTINI๐Ÿซ’๐Ÿซ’1 cup chopped large green olives, pits removed 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp. olive oilSalt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Baguette slices Brush the Baguette slices with olive...

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.