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Barbara C., MT

I am 63 and was diagnosed 4 years ago with COPD. I have never smoked, nor worked in an environment that would cause lung disease. For the past 22 years, I've lived in a county that has consistently earned an "F" on its annual air-quality report cards.

I'm concerned for all the right reasons; without clean air, babies to the elderly are affected daily. It's difficult to live a normal life with COPD. Days go by when you're rather lifeless and tired when you haven't done anything. There are also days when you suffer with exacerbations and can't catch your breath. You live with a rescue inhaler in your home, car, purse and everywhere you go. In addition, the medications are grossly expensive.

I am 63 and was diagnosed 4 years ago with COPD. I have never smoked, nor worked in an environment that would cause lung disease. For the past 22 years, I've lived in a county that has consistently earned an "F" on its annual air-quality report cards.

First Published: May 30, 2013

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