Just out of hospital; new to site

mlrenier
mlrenier Posts: 2
edited September 25 in Introduce Yourself
I've been out of the hospital one week after spending 10 days in Intensive Care -- 5 on a ventilator -- and four days in a regular room. I was admitted because of COPD exacerbation. At this point I am not allowed to be involved in gym activities, and will not even start pulmonary rehab at least for another month. But... in the meantime, I would like to start losing weight which will make my breathing easier. I am 5 foot tall and weight 161.8 pounds. ( I did lose 11 pounds while I was in the hospital, and I certainly want to keep that off.) And did I say I am 70 years old? I don't know how this will work since I am very limited in what I can do for awhile. Hopefully within a month I can get into exercising. I also don't know if any of you have a problem similar to mine or if there is anyone here about my age, but I'm sure this journey would be easier if I would have a companion to travel with.

Replies

  • kaleighj
    kaleighj Posts: 1
    While I may not be in the same situation that you are, I would love to be there with you as we take this journey! I'm 5' 1" and just had a baby 3 months ago. I'm at least 20 pounds past my normal weight and am working to get that off. I found a great website to visit if you want to do some light walking exercises: exercisetv.com. I suggest going there. :) I wish you the best!
  • Setof2Keys
    Setof2Keys Posts: 681 Member
    I totally have your back. I admire that at 70 years old you are still taking control of your life. I am pretty over weight and it is difficult, but not impossible. Are you atleast able to walk around? I would also ask your doctor about what breathing exercises they can give you until you see a Resp. Therapist. You may be able to do some lung strengthening in the mean time (although I am not a doctor by any means, so please consult). If you are able to at least walk around, make sure to keep moving. There is a lot of great advice on here about foods. Traditional American diets that were always taught to me as normal, are not. I have learned a ton on here...Welcome and way to keep fighting,
  • janemartin02
    janemartin02 Posts: 2,653 Member
    HI!Iv`e been limited with my ex due to surgery.I have been watching my calories as to not gain wt.
    Just a suggestion.
    Good luck!!:flowerforyou: jane
  • kschew01
    kschew01 Posts: 1
    :smile: I think it is great you have joined this website. i am new to this site too... my fitness instructor told me about this today. Simple things like walking to your mailbox, walking up and down your drive way- at a slow pace- of course d/t your COPD is an excellent start. I am proud of you wanting to make a change. I recommend slow life changes when it comes to diet and activity. Too many radical changes at once can lead to failure im afraid.
  • carrie_lebel
    carrie_lebel Posts: 135
    Take good care of yourself. Sounds like you had an awful experience. Keep your diet clean, and rest yourself.
  • mlrenier
    mlrenier Posts: 2
    Thanks to all who responded to my introduction. I hope to get to know you all better as the weeks go by. Yes, I can walk, although I am still quite shaky. I have walked outside a little the last 2 days but I have to use my walker, which I didn't have before I went to the hospital. I think I use it outside just for security (and to be sure I can get back home.) Believe me, as soon as possible I will ditch the walker and go on my own. In the meantime, thanks for the support.
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