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| Every Breath Brings Success - SMMC Celebrates Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week: March 14-20 |
YORK COUNTY, MAINE – Bob Boucher of Biddeford is among one hundred patients at Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) who appreciate the value of breathing. Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) for the past decade, Boucher was admitted to the hospital last year and SMMC PrimeCare Pulmonologist Richard Kahn, M.D., recommended he attend the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. “It was a wake-up call that I had to do something. That man saved my life,” stated Boucher.
This year’s theme “Every Breath Brings Success,” will be the focus of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week from March 14-20. Initiated by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation and celebrated throughout the United States, this special week emphasizes the successes of pulmonary rehabilitation and its goal to improve the quality of life of individuals with lung disease through exercise and education. The program is designed to help those with chronic lung disease, such as COPD, emphysema, asthma or chronic bronchitis live a more active life in spite of their disease by improving physical fitness and helping individuals understand all aspects of lung disease, which allows them to maintain their independence and reduce their symptoms of shortness of breath.
“I can’t believe the difference, both mentally and physically, that I feel from this program. I feel more energized than I have in years,” stated Boucher. “I like the positive attitude and constant monitoring from the staff to make sure you aren’t overdoing it. What better place than in the hospital to workout. I have found success, and I continue to improve.”
“Exercise plays a very important role in managing lung disease,” stated Pulmonary Rehabilitation nurse, Katherine Murdough, RN. “By improving your strength, everyday activities become a little easier to do; and you feel less short of breath. Education plays a key role in Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The more you learn about your disease, the more active role you take in your own care. Involvement in pulmonary rehabilitation also allows patients to decrease their isolation, gain confidence and learn from others with similar problems.”
In addition to the regular program, SMMC encourages participants to join the Better Breathers Club. In partnership with the American Lung Association, The Better Breathers Club of Southern Maine is a support group that offers community-based educational opportunities and support to people with COPD, their family and friends. The club meets the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at SMMC PrimeCare, 9 Healthcare Drive, Second Floor Conference Room in Biddeford.
SMMC’s Cardiopulmonary Wellness Center  opened last summer and includes the Joseph A. and Anna Marie Petrin Cardiopulmonary Gym, which boasts the latest in exercise equipment, locker rooms and consultation rooms. The addition nearly triples the size of the previous space, enabling SMMC to accommodate over 300 patient visits per week, up from its previous capacity of about 85 per week. If you have a chronic lung disease, ask your doctor about joining a pulmonary rehabilitation program. Studies show pulmonary rehabilitation can improve your quality of life and help you maintain your independence. Many people aren't even aware of these programs. For more information on the pulmonary rehabilitation program at SMMC call 283-7789.
Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) is a national award-winning medical center offering excellent clinical care that is also compassionate and attentive to each patient's individual needs. In conjunction with a medical staff of over 200 highly-skilled physicians, SMMC offers Maine's newest state-of-the-art emergency and fast track care as well as a full range of inpatient and outpatient services at its 150-bed acute care medical center located just off Exit 32 of I-95 in Biddeford. Additionally, SMMC's physician services offer high quality medical care at physician offices located in Biddeford, Kennebunk, Old Orchard Beach and Saco; a full range of outpatient services at its diagnostic and therapy centers in Saco, Kennebunk, and Biddeford. SMMC also offers superior home nursing care through affiliate SMMC Visiting Nurses. SMMC is Joint Commission accredited, state-licensed, and a member of MaineHealth. To find a physician associated with SMMC, go to www.smmc.org/medstaff.
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