Speaker: Ruth
Tell us a little bit about yourself
Ruth : Hi, my name is Ruth. I am 84 years old. I'm from a family of 10 siblings. My dad had pulmonary fibrosis. I quit smoking in 1984. I was diagnosed with emphysema or COPD and, about five years ago when I became very short of breath, when I was out golfing, walking and I knew there was something wrong. That's when I saw my doctor. They had tests done and they referred me to Best Care.
Tell us about your diagnosis
Ruth : I was referred to this doctor who did testing on me and he told me that I had COPD, emphysema and he uh me to go into Best Care and get some directions there as to what to do and...
How has your life changed since your diagnosis?
Ruth : Well, I haven't been quite as active as I used to be, although I still am. But I've been, once I was put on my puffers and I was able to go up and down stairs better. Although I do get short of breath going upstairs. If I rush, I don't have to stop part way. I do walk for golfing now, if it's not too hot out. But I can't walk in the wintertime when it's cold and windy, it just takes my breath away.
How has Best Care impacted your life?
Ruth : I, I think being with the nurse, the respiratory educator, I don't think I would have had, would have known how to use my puffers and who to call if I get in trouble, which I have called once for the nurse educator or the respiratory educator. The puffers have really helped me. I don't know where I would be without them. I'm sure I would be much worse.
Do you have a message for others about the Best Care program?
Ruth : Well, all I can say is I hope they've the ones that are getting care from Best Care. I quit smoking because I think that was one of my major reasons why I developed this and where I am today. And then the educator has really informed me on different things and how I can get help from them. If I get in trouble without having to go to emergency, I can just call them for advice and they can direct me.
