Celebrating Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week 2021 - Diane's Patient Experience

Hello my name is Diane Hill and I am 70 years old.

I was diagnosed with a permanent lung condition called bronchiectasis last year and my specialist consultant referred me to Solent NHS Trust’s pulmonary rehab centre. Feeling very low and unwell at this point, I was very grateful to be offered any available help and I was invited to join a six week course starting via zoom in April.

I haven’t looked back.

The classes helped me to understand how my lungs worked and the importance of exercise to help and strengthen my lungs. Initially I was exhausted after doing the sessions and had to rest but soon felt the benefits and was able to do more. I needed the motivation of the classes and the discipline, because I knew it was doing me good! In particular, I became aware of my breathing and how I needed to learn how to breathe properly whilst doing things at home. I was able to incorporate the breathing techniques whilst doing household chores and noticing when I wasn’t breathing properly. Learning to pace myself has also been important, another benefit of the class!

The combination of learning how to breathe properly and also the importance of continuing to exercise after completing the programme has strengthened me considerably and has really improved the quality of my life in every way.

I felt very safe and in good hands knowing that all the time I could be seen via zoom. The staff were amazing in their support and encouragement. An extra bonus was all the education provided during the class and so much ongoing support also available. I am able to continue my exercise class by simply watching the video links provided.

I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone suffering with a chronic lung condition. It was great to have the support and encouragement of the excellent team, and I can’t praise them enough. They were wonderful!