A C.O.P.D. SUPPORT GROUP FOR PEOPLE WITH BREATHING PROBLEMSAND THEIR CAREGIVERS Nick Jones, President 751-1313 Stephen Rule, Vice President 205-7874
December 2011
AIRHEADS SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS – December 13 th ONLY Members of the Villages Airheads meet in the Mulberry Grove Recreation Center’s Old Glory Room, 8445 SE 165 th Mulberry Lane, on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, at 10:00 am. Mark your calendar. Please come to our meetings and bring your spouse or a friend! December 13 th is the Christmas Party. NO MEETING ON DEC 27 th. BREATHING & EXERCISE CLASSES – December 2 nd ONLY These classes are held on the 1 st & 3 rd Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in the same location as above. Come to exercise and learn how to relax and breathe efficiently.
THERE WILL BE NO CLASS ON DEC 16 th. DECEMBER GUEST SPEAKERS December 13 th – Christmas Party
December 27 th – THERE WILL BE NO MEETING ON DEC 27 th.
A BIG THANK YOU Actually, I want to give a big thank you to two super ladies: Jan Jones and Marita Kay. On November 4 th, Dr. Juan Albino and I attended a COPD Conference in Tampa. Jan & Marita served as COPD “experts” at the health fair being held at the Savannah Center and had the opportunity to speak with and provide information to many of those in attendance. Jan also finished up the exercise class when I left to pick up the doctor. Thank you, ladies for going that extra mile to help others.
n
WELCOME
Welcome New Members – Ron Harding, Merrywilliam Hermansen, Priscilla Maday, Don McCrady, Elaine Plotycia, Mike & Barbara Scheiling, Brenda Swiderek, and Arlene Vinci
INFORMATIVE WEB SITES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS
International Society for Stem Cell Research – www.isscr.org
Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation – www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org - Tel. 1-888-733-6741
COPD Foundation – www.copdfoundation.org - Tel. 1-866-316-2673
American Thoracic Society – www.thoracic.org/education/breathing-in-america
Pulmonary Paper – www.pulmonarypaper.org - Tel. 1-800-950-3698
State of Florida Legislators - www.leg.state.fl.us
GROANER– It is sometimes best to quit while you are behind!A minister ran into a former church member he hadn't seen for some time. In the course of their conversation, the minister inquired about the man's family.
"My wife went to heaven last month," the man replied sadly.
"I'm so sorry," the minister answered automatically. Realizing what he'd just said about the heavenly reward, he caught himself and added, "I'm glad."
This sounded even worse, so after collecting his thoughts for a moment, he tried again with "I certainly am surprised."
STEM CELL THERAPY Another Airhead, Mary Mauldin has taken her big step in her fight against COPD. On October 31 st, she took a trip to Sarasota, FL and received her stem cell therapy. Now we have Mary and Sher McFarland to keep us up to date on their progress.
Editor’s note: Again, this is not an endorsement of using unapproved or untested health procedures. We do, however, wish them both well and hope for the best.
REST IN PEACE November was marked by the passing of two Airheads: Alice Bowen and Bob Visintainer. Alice was a long time member and also active in Operation Shoebox. Bob, although not a regular attendee, loved the Airheads and his family donated many supplies to the group. His family reported that, “It was so peaceful at the end.” May they both rest in peace.
COPD CAREGIVERSSylvia Wagner has announced that the COPD Caregivers meeting will be for caregivers only. It has been decided that a more intimate atmosphere is most conducive to frank discussions, so the meetings will be held at personal residences. For information, please contact Barbara at 259-8768or Sylvia at (259-5570). The December meeting will be held at Sylvia’s home; 1289 Weaton Court, in the Village of Glenbrook.
BE HAPPY/LIVE LONGER–From an article by David Lipschitz, Columnist Nowadays, it is easy to become pessimistic about the future of our nation or if our resources will be sufficient to meet our needs. Pessimism runs rampant and it is associated with poor health and shorter life expectancy. This is borne out by a study performed by the National Academy of Sciences, where the happiness levels of 3,583 people from age 52 to 69 were assessed and followed for five years. Many had chronic diseases, while some had excessive alcohol use and *smoked cigarettes. Despite these illnesses, being happier was associated with a longer life expectancy. Another study that followed the lives of 5,000 college students for 40 years found that pessimism was linked to a higher death rate, while those who were happy and content lived longer. Happy individuals are less likely to be stressed, often are at their ideal body weight, tend to exercise and eat right, and have high self-esteem. All of these traits are predictors of longevity.
Without happiness, no one can tackle life’s challenges with passion. Unhappy people are less likely to be loved, more likely to be lonely, less likely to have faith in themselves or in a higher power, and less likely to seek medical advice to prevent or treat a disease.
With happiness comes smiles and laughter – two powerful tonics that improve the health in the individual and those around him or her. A good belly laugh is associated with a better metabolism, lowered blood pressure, reduced stress, and improved relationships.
Laughter causes the release of endorphins that elevate mood, creating a natural high that relieves tension and relaxes muscles. Laughter boosts the immune system, so those who smile and laugh are far less likely to develop minor infections. So what should we do with this information? Understand that if you are pessimistic, sad, and lonely, it is time to seek help. Being pessimistic is almost like a disease, drawing similar people to you who only make things worse. Pessimism and loneliness impair the ability to make friends or develop constructive relationships. Sometimes counseling is the best approach to dealing with pessimistic approaches to life. Consider counseling if you have a problem finding friends or feel that people don’t like you. I addition to the Internet
and the library, bookstores abound with self-help information that can help promote a positive attitude to life and make you happier.
For those of you who do not feel particularly happy, content, or fulfilled, learn to smile more and don’t be shy. See the bright rather than the dark side of things. Spend time with playful and fun people and bring humor into conversations.
There is truly hope for everyone. Learn to be happier and if necessary, seek help. The happier your life, the better your health and the brighter your days. Life is too short not to have fun!
* Quitting smoking is THE BEST thing that one with COPD should do. In addition to reducing further damage to the lungs, one’s self-esteem gets a big boost and one derives a well-deserved feeling of accomplishment.
FOR SALE FOR SALE Respironics Evergo Portable Oxygen Concentrator with all accessories is for sale at a bargain price. Pulse settings 1-6 in one-half increments. It is under factory warranty (in writing) through December of 2012. Call Maxine at 352-750-0626, here in The Villages . Hurry, as it probably won’t be on the market long.
THIRD ANNUAL AIRHEADS CRUISE March 7, 2012 is the sailing date for our next Airheads Cruise. It will be departing Ft. Lauderdale and sailing for 10 days throughout the Southern Caribbean. Contact VP Steve Rule or go to www.seapuffers.com for more information. As you may have read in the Pulmonary Paper, many of the cruise lines are tightening their rules on smoking. Yea!!!
Word has it that our cruise group is up to 32 sailors and sailorettes. We were able to take over the dining room the last time we sailed with Princess with fewer than that! C’mon and join us! It’ll be GREAT!
COPD AWARENESS On Friday, December 16, 2011, a free workshop will be held in Celebration, FL (near Disney World) at the Florida Hospital, Mangrove Conference Room
from 2:30 - 5:30 P.M. There will be a follow-up notice via e-mail with driving instructions to self or valet parking, both free of charge. This workshop will include:
"The Future of COPD" - Dr. Juan Albino, Pulmonologist from The Villages
"Alpha-1 Deficiency - Who Needs to be Tested" - speaker from the COPD/Alpha-1 Foundation
"Resources and Advocacy for COPD Community" - speaker from the COPD Foundation
"Keys for Healthy Living with COPD" - panel discussion with Dr. Albino, Patients Karen Deitemeyer & Nick Jones, and two respiratory therapists.
Wishing You A Merry Christmas&A Happy/Healthy New Year “In the end, it is not the years in your life that count. It is the life in your years, so be happy and live your life to the fullest. ”
Nick Jones, President 751-1313 Stephen Rule, Vice President 205-7874
December 2011
AIRHEADS SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS – December 13 th ONLY Members of the Villages Airheads meet in the Mulberry Grove Recreation Center’s Old Glory Room, 8445 SE 165 th Mulberry Lane, on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, at 10:00 am. Mark your calendar. Please come to our meetings and bring your spouse or a friend! December 13 th is the Christmas Party. NO MEETING ON DEC 27 th. BREATHING & EXERCISE CLASSES – December 2 nd ONLYThese classes are held on the 1 st & 3 rd Friday of each month at 10:00 a.m. in the same location as above. Come to exercise and learn how to relax and breathe efficiently.
THERE WILL BE NO CLASS ON DEC 16 th. DECEMBER GUEST SPEAKERSDecember 13 th – Christmas Party
December 27 th – THERE WILL BE NO MEETING ON DEC 27 th.
A BIG THANK YOUActually, I want to give a big thank you to two super ladies: Jan Jones and Marita Kay. On November 4 th, Dr. Juan Albino and I attended a COPD Conference in Tampa. Jan & Marita served as COPD “experts” at the health fair being held at the Savannah Center and had the opportunity to speak with and provide information to many of those in attendance. Jan also finished up the exercise class when I left to pick up the doctor. Thank you, ladies for going that extra mile to help others.
n
WELCOME
Welcome New Members – Ron Harding, Merrywilliam Hermansen, Priscilla Maday, Don McCrady, Elaine Plotycia, Mike & Barbara Scheiling, Brenda Swiderek, and Arlene Vinci
INFORMATIVE WEB SITES AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS
International Society for Stem Cell Research – www.isscr.org
Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation – www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org - Tel. 1-888-733-6741
COPD Foundation – www.copdfoundation.org - Tel. 1-866-316-2673
American Thoracic Society – www.thoracic.org/education/breathing-in-america
Pulmonary Paper – www.pulmonarypaper.org - Tel. 1-800-950-3698
State of Florida Legislators - www.leg.state.fl.us
GROANER– It is sometimes best to quit while you are behind!A minister ran into a former church member he hadn't seen for some time. In the course of their conversation, the minister inquired about the man's family.
"My wife went to heaven last month," the man replied sadly.
"I'm so sorry," the minister answered automatically. Realizing what he'd just said about the heavenly reward, he caught himself and added, "I'm glad."
This sounded even worse, so after collecting his thoughts for a moment, he tried again with "I certainly am surprised."
STEM CELL THERAPYAnother Airhead, Mary Mauldin has taken her big step in her fight against COPD. On October 31 st, she took a trip to Sarasota, FL and received her stem cell therapy. Now we have Mary and Sher McFarland to keep us up to date on their progress.
Editor’s note: Again, this is not an endorsement of using unapproved or untested health procedures. We do, however, wish them both well and hope for the best.
REST IN PEACENovember was marked by the passing of two Airheads: Alice Bowen and Bob Visintainer. Alice was a long time member and also active in Operation Shoebox. Bob, although not a regular attendee, loved the Airheads and his family donated many supplies to the group. His family reported that, “It was so peaceful at the end.” May they both rest in peace.
COPD CAREGIVERSSylvia Wagner has announced that the COPD Caregivers meeting will be for caregivers only. It has been decided that a more intimate atmosphere is most conducive to frank discussions, so the meetings will be held at personal residences. For information, please contact Barbara at 259-8768or Sylvia at (259-5570). The December meeting will be held at Sylvia’s home; 1289 Weaton Court, in the Village of Glenbrook.
BE HAPPY/LIVE LONGER–From an article by David Lipschitz, ColumnistNowadays, it is easy to become pessimistic about the future of our nation or if our resources will be sufficient to meet our needs. Pessimism runs rampant and it is associated with poor health and shorter life expectancy. This is borne out by a study performed by the National Academy of Sciences, where the happiness levels of 3,583 people from age 52 to 69 were assessed and followed for five years. Many had chronic diseases, while some had excessive alcohol use and *smoked cigarettes. Despite these illnesses, being happier was associated with a longer life expectancy. Another study that followed the lives of 5,000 college students for 40 years found that pessimism was linked to a higher death rate, while those who were happy and content lived longer. Happy individuals are less likely to be stressed, often are at their ideal body weight, tend to exercise and eat right, and have high self-esteem. All of these traits are predictors of longevity.
Without happiness, no one can tackle life’s challenges with passion. Unhappy people are less likely to be loved, more likely to be lonely, less likely to have faith in themselves or in a higher power, and less likely to seek medical advice to prevent or treat a disease.
With happiness comes smiles and laughter – two powerful tonics that improve the health in the individual and those around him or her. A good belly laugh is associated with a better metabolism, lowered blood pressure, reduced stress, and improved relationships.
Laughter causes the release of endorphins that elevate mood, creating a natural high that relieves tension and relaxes muscles. Laughter boosts the immune system, so those who smile and laugh are far less likely to develop minor infections.So what should we do with this information? Understand that if you are pessimistic, sad, and lonely, it is time to seek help. Being pessimistic is almost like a disease, drawing similar people to you who only make things worse. Pessimism and loneliness impair the ability to make friends or develop constructive relationships. Sometimes counseling is the best approach to dealing with pessimistic approaches to life. Consider counseling if you have a problem finding friends or feel that people don’t like you. I addition to the Internet
and the library, bookstores abound with self-help information that can help promote a positive attitude to life and make you happier.
For those of you who do not feel particularly happy, content, or fulfilled, learn to smile more and don’t be shy. See the bright rather than the dark side of things. Spend time with playful and fun people and bring humor into conversations.
There is truly hope for everyone. Learn to be happier and if necessary, seek help. The happier your life, the better your health and the brighter your days. Life is too short not to have fun!
* Quitting smoking is THE BEST thing that one with COPD should do. In addition to reducing further damage to the lungs, one’s self-esteem gets a big boost and one derives a well-deserved feeling of accomplishment.
FOR SALE FOR SALERespironics Evergo Portable Oxygen Concentrator with all accessories is for sale at a bargain price. Pulse settings 1-6 in one-half increments. It is under factory warranty (in writing) through December of 2012. Call Maxine at 352-750-0626, here in The Villages . Hurry, as it probably won’t be on the market long.
THIRD ANNUAL AIRHEADS CRUISEMarch 7, 2012 is the sailing date for our next Airheads Cruise. It will be departing Ft. Lauderdale and sailing for 10 days throughout the Southern Caribbean. Contact VP Steve Rule or go to www.seapuffers.com for more information. As you may have read in the Pulmonary Paper, many of the cruise lines are tightening their rules on smoking. Yea!!!
Word has it that our cruise group is up to 32 sailors and sailorettes. We were able to take over the dining room the last time we sailed with Princess with fewer than that! C’mon and join us! It’ll be GREAT!
COPD AWARENESS On Friday, December 16, 2011, a free workshop will be held in Celebration, FL (near Disney World) at the Florida Hospital, Mangrove Conference Room from 2:30 - 5:30 P.M.There will be a follow-up notice via e-mail with driving instructions to self or valet parking, both free of charge. This workshop will include:
"The Future of COPD" - Dr. Juan Albino, Pulmonologist from The Villages
"Alpha-1 Deficiency - Who Needs to be Tested" - speaker from the COPD/Alpha-1 Foundation
"Resources and Advocacy for COPD Community" - speaker from the COPD Foundation
"Keys for Healthy Living with COPD" - panel discussion with Dr. Albino, Patients Karen Deitemeyer & Nick Jones, and two respiratory therapists.
Wishing You A Merry Christmas&A Happy/Healthy New Year “In the end, it is not the years in your life that count. It is the life in your years, so be happy and live your life to the fullest. ”