By Jean Copeland

My family had a grand plan for 2008: it was to be a much better year than 2007. We had health issues for some of us and the loss of my mother. Not a very good year to remember, so 2008 had to be much better…right? Yes, it is!

Through the early detection study for lung cancer at Methodist, also known as I-ELCAP, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. What a blow that was to my plan for a wonderful year! Surgery was performed to remove a portion of my lung. It was confirmed that I had Stage I lung cancer with no lymph node involvement. Things were definitely looking up because this meant no chemo or radiation therapy, just follow-ups with CT scans on a regular basis. How lucky can a person get?

After surgery I was on oxygen for activity since my breathing was already compromised by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Exhaustion was a normal feeling, and I knew that I had to do everything possible to improve this situation. Enter the wonderful women of Pulmonary Partners rehabilitation at Methodist.

An initial evaluation was done to access my individual situation, and an education and exercise program was started. I began pulmonary rehab in May and have spent most of my summer with the most amazing people. Twice a week I did rehab with other people who also had compromised breathing for one reason or another. Not all had had cancer or surgery. They just needed a little help to breathe better.

The goal is to increase the body’s ability to use oxygen more efficiently by strengthening the muscles and to know how to breathe properly for optimum use by education. I was amazed to learn that I had a lot to learn! Planning my day is crucial to being able to function at the rate I desire. I now know that I have limitations, but I am only limited by myself, not the cancer or the COPD. A normal life can be lived and enjoyed, and I did so enjoy my days at rehab.

I have “graduated” the program with a lot of progress. I no longer have to use oxygen for my activities as long as what I am doing is not really strenuous. What a thrill to reach that goal and know that with the help and encouragement of the staff and other participants I achieved so much! I left with changes that I had not anticipated. Not only can I breathe better, I also became much more flexible and toned, and my endurance is significantly improved.

I feel confident that this will continue to be a great year as I have learned so much and met so many wonderful people who have filled my heart. I have been blessed with a great family, special friends and terrific medical people. Who could ask for more? I am looking forward to the rest of my journey.