[A]fter struggling for many years with various lung and health problems, 78 year old Tony Luisi from Kendal decided to take action and enrolled on the pulmonary rehabilitation course at Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT).
Tony was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) about 15 years ago but has struggled with lung problems since he was a child. Determined to take control of his breathing when doing simple day to day tasks, Tony joined the pulmonary rehabilitation classes organised by the South Lakes Respiratory Team.
Tony has already noticed the benefits: “The course has been really good and I would highly recommend it to anyone with breathing difficulties. Over the years I’ve spent a lot of time in hospital, including a two year stint when I was eight years old and again when I was 26 after my lung collapsed. A couple of years ago during the winter I spent more time in hospital because my breathing deteriorated with the cold air but from going along to the classes the exercises have really helped me control my breathing and gain more strength.
“The one thing I said I’d like to do is to walk up to the castle in Kendal and I’ve done this twice since starting the course. I can’t recommend the course enough and I am very grateful to the staff that helped me, their dedication to their job and helping others is great.”
Alison Brenton, Specialist Respiratory Occupational Therapist who helped Tony at the classes, adds: “As with any form of treatment, you get out of it what you put into it and this is especially true for pulmonary rehabilitation. We tailor our exercise programme to meet the individual goals of the participant and achievement of those goals is the most satisfying way that we measure success.
“For Tony to be able to climb to the castle is a validation of all the hard work he’s put in during the sessions, and at home in between. It’s a fantastic achievement!
“The other important aspect of managing lung health is education and understanding your lung condition. We offer a series of talks in Kendal that are open to anyone with a lung condition and their carers to help improve self-management.”
Tony’s wife, Maureen Luisi has also seen a huge difference in Tony: “Since Tony has completed the course, I’ve noticed a huge difference in his breathing, especially as he doesn’t get out of breath as much when he’s walking. It really has done him the world of good”.
Pulmonary rehab is an exercise and education programme for people with lung conditions. Individuals can be referred by their GP.
Lung talks in Kendal can be booked by calling The South lakes Respiratory Team on 01539 716670.
