Canterbury’s Better Breathing Programme exercise and coffee mornings upped the ante on this week’s ‘training’ sessions to mark World COPD Day (21 November).

The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) allowing a focus on sharing knowledge, says exercise and coffee morning lead organiser Pauline Mohi.

“Knowledge is powerful and this day provides another opportunity to share what we know – that exercise helps those with COPD. Breathlessness isn’t just a normal part of ageing and exercising through it really does work. It enable us to regain some control,” said Pauline.

“This isn’t a nice disease, none ever is, but World COPD Day gives us a chance to celebrate the togetherness it has brought us.”

This year’s theme – never too early, never too late – is an adage that Pauline echoes.

“I am so lucky I was told of the Better Breathing courses because they, alongside the nurses, physiotherapists and exercise trainers, have changed my life.

“Just because I get breathless doesn’t mean I can’t do things. I have just learned to do things differently. Sometimes slower, sometimes in smaller pieces of time. But I still do the things I love doing.

“In my retirement my life has meaning, and I love what I do.”

The Better Breathing Programme is a pulmonary rehabilitation programme offered free in various locations across Canterbury. It includes education and exercise sessions designed to equip people with respiratory conditions like COPD to manage their condition.

Take a look at our Integrated Respiratory Services page to find out more about the team, and talk to your GP if you think you’d benefit from a referral to the Better Breathing Programme.