From Danville Regional Health System
Better Health Magazine Archives

Betsy and Zane Evans both suffer from pulmonary diseases that can turn the simple act of breathing into a difficult task. Thanks to the new pulmonary rehab program at Danville Regional Medical Center, they're both breathing a lot easier.

Joan Cofflin, R.N., a nurse at the Pulmonary Health Center, worked closely with the Evanses during the 12-week program. "We provide one-on-one education and individualized training on exercise equipment in the workout room," she said. "Patients also attend group classes, in which we bring in physical therapists, pharmacists, dieticians, occupational therapists and behavioral health professionals to talk about how to overcome the effects of pulmonary disease."

Diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, Betsy Evans was on oxygen 24 hours a day and would lose her breath just walking from one room to another. "The nurses guided me through the program very gradually," she said. "I'm very pleased that I've improved so significantly."

Zane Evans, who suffers from emphysema, also benefited from the program. "Before I began the program, I was using my inhaler two or three times a day," he said. "Now I only use it once every three or four days. And I've noticed a tremendous difference in my strength."

Candidates for the program live with debilitating pulmonary diseases, such as lung cancer or chronic asthma, that prevent them from leading an active lifestyle. "Being able to breathe better enables patients to do more physical activity. That greatly improves the quality of their lives and increases their independence," said Cofflin. "The earlier patients can get into the program, often the greater the potential for improvement."

Today, Betsy and Zane stay active volunteering at the information desk in the lobby of Danville Regional Medical Center. "The nurses are knowledgeable, professional, upbeat and very supportive," said Zane Evans. "We're so impressed with the program that we want to offer our encouragement to patients who are just beginning it."