COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a chronic lung condition that makes it hard to breathe.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition characterized by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. It encompasses diseases such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis, leading to difficulties in breathing, frequent coughing, and mucus production.
The primary cause is long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke. COPD is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and while it is not fully reversible, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation, are crucial in slowing disease progression.
COPD Patient Forum
BC Lung Foundation holds an annual webinar to raise awareness on the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention for COPD. Keeping lungs healthy is an integral part of future health and well-being – it’s so important to take action as soon as possible.
World COPD Day: Virtual Patient Forum
November 20, 2024
Brought to you by BC Lung Foundation and Poplar Pulmonary Wellness
Harmonicas for Health and Happiness
Are you an adult who has been diagnosed with a chronic lung condition? This program is for you!
Did you know that playing the harmonica is not only fun, but it can strengthen your breathing muscles for better breath control, improve the quality of your cough for better mucus clearance and build confidence for improved quality of life!
Join us for one hour, once a week for 5 weeks, in this interactive group class over Zoom.
Our session dates are:
Friday October 11 – November 8 (Fridays from 1-2pm PT)
Monday November 18 – December 16 (Mondays from 1-2pm PT)
Monday January 13 – February 10 (Mondays from 1-2pm PT)
Monday March 3 – March 31 (Mondays from 1-2pm PT)
This program is developed by the COPD Foundation, funded by BC Lung Foundation, and brought to you by Poplar Pulmonary Wellness.
Sign up for your free welcome intake session by visiting the link below. You may also book through:
Phone: 236-361-3480
Email: poplar@poplarpulmonary.com
Ask the Experts Monthly Webinars
Our monthly webinar series is designed to help those living with COPD optimize quality of life, covering education components key to effective self-management of your COPD and/or asthma.
Our next webinar is: April 16, 2025
Topic: Wildfire Smoke & Extreme Heat: Action Plans
Date: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 from 10:00am to 11:00am PT via Zoom
Speaker: Dr. Emily Brigham; Jacqueline Turvey, RRT
Description: This webinar will focus on maintaining lung health and safety during peak fire and heat seasons. Development of action plans to provide patients with control during these months will also be discussed.
About the Hosts
Alexa McMillan has worked in numerous respiratory therapist (RT) roles at Royal Inland Hospital including acute care therapist, community therapist and clinical resource educator. Recently, she transitioned into the role of Assistant Professional Practice Lead in the Respiratory Therapy Department, researching and implementing the newest evidence-based therapies. Outside of work, Alexa loves to spend time with family and dog Jaco – often in the mountains or travelling abroad.
Lindsay Wetterstrand is an Assistant Teaching Professor in the Respiratory Therapy Program at Thompson Rivers University, BC’s RT training ground central! Lindsay takes immense pride in educating future RTs. When not working or learning, Lindsay enjoys time with loved ones, including of course, her family and pets.
COPD Self-Care Video Series
Created by lung health experts at UBC’s Institute for Heart and Lung Health, with support from BC Lung and Vancouver Coast Health, the following video resources cover topics key to effective self-management of COPD.
When COPD patients experience severe symptom flare ups (also known as exacerbations), this can lead to Emergency Room visits and hospitalization. The expert advice provided below, when consistently followed, is proven to help patients minimize severe symptom flare ups and hospitalizations and optimize quality of life.
These resources were created by lung health experts at UBC’s Institute for Heart and Lung Health with support from BC Lung and Vancouver Coast Health. Find these resources available in six languages.
Exercise Support
Living with COPD or Asthma? Regular exercise can help you feel better and breathe easier. Check out our resources!
Peer Support Groups
Our support programs are designed for those living with, impacted by, or providing care for those with chronic lung conditions including COPD and Asthma.
Better Breathers of BC Support Group
2nd Wednesday of the month, 2pm-3pm PST
Virtual: click here for the Zoom link
IN-PERSON SUPPORT GROUPS
The following in-person groups are currently active. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us by email at betterbreathers@bclung.ca or by phone 1-800-665-5864.
Abbotsford Support Group
3rd Thursday of the month, 10:00am-12:00pm
Cascade Community Church, 35190 Delair Rd, Abbotsford
North Okanagan Support Group
1st Monday of the month, 1:00pm-3:00pm
Vernon Library, 2800 30th Ave, Vernon
If you are interested in being a part of, or initiating your own, in-person support group for those living with COPD, contact us at betterbreathers@bclung.ca.
Online Support Group
Click below to join our private Facebook Group. The purpose of this group is to share patient experiences, support one another, have access to expert respiratory health support and learn how to live your best life. Please note you must have a Facebook account.
