Patty Kramer's Story

What were the steps leading up to your diagnosis?

My name is Patty and I have had COPD, emphysema, and asthma for years and experienced no real problems. But in 2013 I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer that spread to my lungs, bones, and spine.

My COPD symptoms grew worse with the cancer diagnosis. However, I could not have made it this far without a great team of doctors that have helped me and all the articles I have read on NewLifeOutlook, which had me asking questions and learning what the best options were for my outcome.

I am doing great today because of the chemo, pulmonary rehab, nebulizer medicines, and my BiPAP machine. But the main thing I have learned from NewLifeOutlook is I have to exercise, or my COPD will not get better.

I am still taking one day at a time and striving for better quality of life. God has blessed me to be able to overcome the obstacles and prolong my life to be with the people I enjoy most, my family.

What lifestyle changes have you needed to make?

Not smoking, exercise, drink plenty of water, and eat right. also to slow down take smaller steps. Lightweight, portable oxygen.

What accomplishment are you proud of?

Going from not being able to take care of myself to be able to do most of the things I always have.

What's your advice to someone else living with COPD?

Excercise, do not smoke, eat right, and take care of yourself.

Who has been there for you? How?

My doctors and family.

Is there anything else we should know?

I was only given five months to live over a year ago and have changed the outcome. I went from living in pain to not much medication. By reading, great doctors with great treatments and pulmonary rehab to teach me to exercise right I will have a longer life to live and be with my family by the grace of God.