Marianne Trouba is making every breath count thanks to Memorial Hospital Pulmonary Rehabilitation. “I am very pleased with the outcome of overall improved lung function and health,” Marianne said. For Marianne, living with decreased lung function was uncomfortable at times. “Every breath was challenging dealing with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) as a result of Emphysema,” Marianne said. Emphysema is one of the diseases that comprises COPD. It involves the gradual damage of lung tissues making it progressively difficult to breathe, accompanied by chronic cough and shortness of breath with activities. “I had always been an active person, staying busy with projects but it was becoming more difficult and less enjoyable as doing projects took some effort,” Marianne explained. “I was not able to exercise and pretty much stayed inside on humid days.”

Marianne visited Dr. Lisa Mansur, Pulmonary and Palliative Care Specialist at the Memorial Hospital Specialty Clinic. Dr. Mansur recommended trying Pulmonary Rehabilitation. With the recent loss of her husband, Marianne felt it was time to take care of herself and committed to thirty-six sessions, twice a week for 18 weeks. Pulmonary Rehabilitation combines exercise training, behavioral and educational programs. Lisa Kimsey, Respiratory Director for Memorial Hospital explains, “Our goal is to increase the patient’s knowledge of their disease and improve their lung capacity to its fullest potential. We have a team approach. Patients work with their doctor, nurses, and respiratory therapist. Physical therapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, dietitians and social workers are available if needed for personalized care.”

Marianne found the program to be very rewarding. “They started me off with an assessment and eased into exercising,” Marianne stated. “The team in Pulmonary Rehab was fabulous. I was always motivated to make every session. I actually looked forward to going as Lisa Kimsey and Stacy Blecha made the time so enjoyable. With their help, I was able to progress through the program, I lost sixteen pounds and reduced my medication usage from using two inhalers daily down to one on an as needed basis.” After completing her sessions, Marianne made the decision to continue with a maintenance program at Memorial Hospital once a week to work on the exercise equipment. She also exercises and feels good even walking several blocks. Lisa Kimsey, Respiratory Director said, “Marianne was an excellent patient that worked hard each session to obtain her goals. She made great progress in the program as she was able to lose weight, increase her speed, time, power and resistance in all areas of physical training. Her lung functions improved and she was able to walk further. She has been able to maintain her exercise regimen post rehab which is a major benefit for continuing to live a healthier life style and breathe easier.”

“I highly recommend the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program,” Marianne expressed. We are very fortunate to have this program available, right here in Seward.” To learn more about Memorial Hospital’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, visit with your medical provider or contact our Respiratory Therapy Department at 402-643-2971.