Illustration 4: Storm
At times COPD can feel like a storm raging around you.
But it doesn’t need to wash away all the positive things in life.

The symptoms of COPD are a constant reminder of the condition for many. People often felt overwhelmed by symptoms: “They’re like these huge waves you can’t escape to get that breath”.
But all agreed they wanted to enjoy their lives despite the condition: “I don’t like it to take over my life”.
Their approaches ranged from taking up gentle exercise classes – such as Pilates – to walking more slowly, making dietary changes, or learning relaxation techniques and breathing exercises.