Oxygen doesn’t need to change you

[BreatheasyBe]

Today I went on a walk all oxygen kitted out for the first time alone, without any support from family and friends. It was a hurdle I had to overcome. I up until a few weeks ago have always been very independent. I had taken a little set back on receiving the oxygen. I was afraid off it. Now after a great day I’m happy to gain back the independent life style I had - it’s so good to get me time. I also realise oxygen doesn’t need to change you. Today the sun was shining and the day was dry. It was fresh and cold but I found that walking even in the shaded areas didn’t restrict my airways the way they usually do when it’s cold outside. The oxygen has made my life a little more comfortable despite the vulnerability I first felt when wearing it. Don’t give up on your independence; if it’s gone gain it back. You deserve to be the whole you!

[sassy59]

A wonderful inspirational post. Well done on getting out and about. Xxxxx

[Oshgosh]

Welldne. Have similar fears

[BreatheasyBe in reply to Oshgosh]

Going into any new territory is daunting for most. Face those fears get help with someone to guide you through them if it’s possible. You can do this x

[Damon1864 Volunteer]

That's wonderful news and I agree with what you have said. It's lovely having that Independence well done, and long may it last. Have a lovely day and take care of yourself 😊 Bernadette xx

[Caspiana]

I couldn't agree more BreatheasyBe . 🙋

When I first started using oxygen I was so very self conscious. It takes getting used to. But you are right we should not give up our independence. It's so important to keep going out. Keep participating in life.

Thank you for encouraging others. Sometimes we need the reminder to embrace our limitations. Sending you best wishes,

Cas xx🌿🐛

[Bingo88]

So pleased for you to see you had the Courage to get out there overcome your bit of fear. And carry on BreatheasyBe. Think when the going gets hard. If we have the strength we get up and fight on to carry on enjoying life the best we can. Enjoy the next 2 days, think we are back to rain then. Brian

[Hacienda]

Thank You for your Encouraging Post Hun, I have always maintained this out look too. Right now after a Hic up with a Chest infection (not had any in a few years) I couldn't make it to my Exercise Classes all last week, Now with my mate OXY, I aim to get there for Thursdays Class, it has always been my Key to Independence. Thanks Again for reminding me. Love n Hugs. C. XXX

[Izb1]

Well done you BreatheastBe, I admire you for facing your fear. Irene x

[gingermusic]

Well done on finding the positive side of oxygen use so quickly. I would not have the standard of lie I currently have were it not for my trusted oxygen supply. Carry on enjoying life.

[Joy123]

Well done for being honest. I remember the first time I appeared in public with my oxygen tank in a discreet ‘posh’ bag hanging from my shoulder (2 yrs ago). I thought if I camouflaged the cylinder I wouldn’t be noticed. How I’ve changed, I now drag my Imogen one wherever I go, not ashamed to ask to plug it in when visiting a restaurant etc or to stop and change the battery whilst being out and about. I do all I used to do, albeit slowly, I live alone and look after myself, cooking etc. I drive too. Joy x

[winabago in reply to Joy123]

How noisy is the imogen unit that you use.

[Joy123 in reply to winabago]

Hi Winabago, how noisy? That’s a hard one. It’s pretty quiet, can’t be heard in a normal outdoor environment or when out for dinner etc. I’ve never had any complaint about it being noisy. I suppose the noisiest part is me inhaling through the canular. x

[winabago in reply to Joy123]

Thank you for the information, I have always wondered how noisy the machine could be.

[Patsy164]

I bet that felt good getting over that hurdle now you will be able to try something else on your own. It’s funny how life throws these things at you and you have to try and overcome them. I am quite determined and if I make up my mind to do something I will do it in the end.

I had a little set back recently I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and also have severe asthma and Bronchiectasis. I have a full mask and found it so claustrophobic but I was so determined to overcome it I have, but I can still feel claustrophobic from time to time which I believe many are the same, I found that listening to headspace meditation and audiobooks helps me to relax and drop off to sleep. We can always find a way out of fears, or so I believe. X

[MADALINE]

Well done on getting out and about darls, keep fighting

[joaquin1937]

What an inspiration you are. May our loving God continue to bless you as you bless others.

[Maureenpearl]

Hi BreatheasyBe,

I have been using oxygen since 2013 and felt quite embarrassed to go out with it for the first time. Now I go all over the world whilst using the oxygen.

I have just come back a week ago from a cruise to the Canary and Spain, I got on the ship at Southampton which was very easy and there were plenty of disabled people on the ship. I actually saw one man in a mobility scooter who was also using oxygen.

You cannot take the oxygen that is supplied by the NHS out of the country. I use to buy the oxygen from a supplier at Southampton who would deliver it to my room on the ship (it was very expensive). I have now bought a concentrator machine which I can and do take when I'm going out of the country.

For holidays in this country My oxygen supplier arranges for the oxygen to be delivered to my holiday accommodation.

Hope this is the start of your new life.

God bless

Maureen

[BreatheasyBe in reply to Maureenpearl]

Thanks Maureen that’s a relief to hear. My friends and I have been saving up for our 50th I’m currently 48 and we had planned on going on a Mamma Mia ABBA trip across the Greek islands that was before my health suffered. I’ve already though about this being impractical as I struggle walking up inclines so a cruise might just be the perfect solution. I might be back in touch to ask a few other questions if that’s ok? I do like a wee a bit of sunshine X

[Neville33]

💖🙏

[Titchykath]

Totally agree, we have bought a staffie/Labrador 12wks now, keeps me going, little walks at the moment . Can’t wait for the long walks through the Forest of Dean where I live 💛👱🏻‍♀️💛I use oxygen when walking fast, uphill or long distance😀