Hello, I'm Deborah

[Deborah]

, my name is Deborah. I've been a member since February when I discovered this site. I got a formal diagnosis of COPD (emphysema) at the end of January. I'm still waiting to go out and see a specialist to get an evaluation and find out what stage I'm at. I recently completed a pulmonary rehabilitation program which was just fabulous, and I've signed up for an online chronic disease management program.

I am working at home until I see the specialist, on doctor's orders. It is very disconcerting and not at all how I thought I would end my career. On the other hand, I am exercising regularly and doing my best to maintain social and family contacts and to keep a positive attitude.

I am 55 years old, married, no kids. I live in Whitehorse, Yukon. I am looking forward to getting to know others in this forum, and to learning from the collective wisdom and experience of the members.

Deborah

[peter]

Hi Deborah, Welcome good to meet you. but sorry for the reason that brought you here.

[John]

[susanny]

Welcome, Deborah! I hope that you find what you are looking for in our forum. It is a very informative as well as friendly place to visit. Stop in to the "Fence" and find out how we're all living with this disease.

Out of curiosity, what type of work do you do that you are able to perform it at home? You are very lucky in that respect and that your employer will allow you to continue in your job at home.

One small thing: in your profile would you mind going back and putting where you live in there? It is helpful to be able to look at a glance and see where someone is from when answering questions that may have different answers depending on where one lives. Thank you.

Again, welcome!

[Deborah]

Thanks, everyone, for the warm welcome and the suggestions. I will update my profile, for sure.

The question about my work: I am a director of policy, planning and communication in government. Unfortunately I cannot do any directing or management, nor can I do a lot of planning from home. i can do some research and some writing as my strength permits, and I do chair one working group in person. Until I see the specialist my doctor does not want me in the office unless they can guarantee it is fume-free, scent-free, and dust-free. The latter is difficult as it is an older building with carpet and those cloth dividers everywhere - not to mention the paper!

My employer is being very good and patient. I have been working there for over 25 years so I like to think it's partially because of my work - but I also like to think that they would treat anyone with COPD as well as they have treated me. There are legal obligations, of course, but how people interact with you is so important. One thing I will be looking for in these forums is how other people are managing with their work, or their change from paid employment to work of a different kind.

Thank you again for the welcome, everyone.

Deborah

[yukongal]

Deborah.....I too am in Whitehorse,,,,,took Terice's wonderful rehab program last fall.....I am in the later stages of copd that is on O2 most of the time and have some difficulty getting around....but I love to have company.....would love to get acquainted with you.....so if you ever feel the need to vent to someone who knows the ropes get in touch......can be reached at 6687329..

[aero63]

Welcome Deborah

Glad you posted. You seem to be off to a healthier start with the rehab and such. There are alot of knowledgeable people here willing to help.

[mary57]

Welcome to the group, glad to see you've already started chatting at the fence.