A few years ago, I never imagined I’d be sitting here, reflecting on my journey with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It started gradually—a little shortness of breath here, a persistent cough there. But as time went on, these symptoms became more than just occasional annoyances; they were signs of a much larger problem. I was eventually diagnosed with COPD, a term that was as foreign to me as the concept of not being able to breathe freely. The diagnosis was overwhelming, but what really hit me was the realization that this was a chronic condition—something I would have to manage for the rest of my life. My doctor explained that my COPD was at a moderate stage, but without proper treatment, it could progress. I remember feeling lost, not knowing what the future held. Over time, my condition worsened, leading to frequent exacerbations. These episodes were terrifying. The shortness of breath would become so severe that I couldn’t even walk across the room without feeling like I was suffocating. It was during one of these episodes that I was introduced to oxygen therapy as a crucial part of managing exacerbations. The relief it brought was almost immediate. It was like a lifeline, helping me breathe when my lungs couldn’t keep up. In addition to oxygen therapy, my treatment plan included other therapies aimed at improving my lung function. I learned about long-acting bronchodilators, which helped keep my airways open and made breathing a bit easier on a day-to-day basis. My doctor emphasized the importance of staying on these medications even when I felt okay, as they were crucial in preventing further deterioration of my lung function. I also started attending pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which became a turning point in my journey. These programs weren’t just about exercise; they were about teaching me how to manage my COPD effectively. The exercise prescription tailored to my condition helped me regain some of the physical strength I had lost, and the education sessions gave me tools to manage my symptoms and understand what was happening in my body. The rehabilitation sessions, especially after exacerbations, played a huge role in improving my overall quality of life. One of the most challenging aspects of living with COPD is understanding how it affects your body. I had to learn about the physiology of my condition—what was happening in my lungs, why I felt breathless, and how different treatments worked. This knowledge became empowering, allowing me to take an active role in my care. My doctor also explained how to recognize the signs of a worsening condition and what steps to take to manage it. Living with COPD has taught me the importance of being proactive about my health. Regular check-ups, sticking to my treatment plan, and making lifestyle changes have all been essential in managing my condition. I’ve also had to make some tough decisions, like using oxygen therapy long-term, but these choices have made a significant difference in how I feel and function each day. Throughout this journey, I’ve also come to realize the importance of understanding and using medical terminology correctly. For instance, knowing the ICD-10 codes for my condition helped me navigate insurance claims and ensure that I was getting the coverage I needed. Understanding terms like “chronic obstructive pulmonary disease” in different languages, such as “en español” or “in Polish,” became essential when discussing my condition with healthcare professionals, especially when traveling. Looking back, the road hasn’t been easy, but I’ve learned to live with COPD, not just suffer from it. The combination of treatments—oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, pulmonary rehabilitation—and the support of my healthcare team have made all the difference. If there’s one thing I’ve taken away from this experience, it’s that you have to be your own advocate. Educate yourself, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to seek out the best treatments and programs available. COPD may be a chronic condition, but with the right management and mindset, it doesn’t have to define your life.