Chronology
Of Illness from Pre-Diagnosis through Present Day
1983-1996
- Covers initial diagnosis and treatment received from our Internal
Medicine physician. Read more about this period of the illness by clicking
here.
1996-1999
- Officially diagnosed with COPD in 1996. Our Internal Medicine
doctor referred my husband to a pulmonology specialist at the Martha
Foster Lung Center (Baylor Hospital). Read more about the illness
and treatments during this period by clicking
here.
2000-2004
- Retired in 1999 due to medical disability. Inability to work
created additional problems for the illness. Read more about this
period of time by clicking here.
2005
- Lung Volume Reduction Surgery was performed in May 2005.
The prognosis for a better quality of life failed due to
complications. Read more about the surgery and its after affects
by clicking here.
2006
- This year was spent trying to recover from the surgery.
Much of the year was spent in the hospital fighting infections and CO2
buildup. Read more about Dennis' battle to survive by clicking here.
2007
- On January 1st, Dennis was rushed to the hospital with a severe
infection. His CO2 level was extremely high. His stay lasted
2 weeks. Read more about Dennis battles with his breathing and
anxiety by clicking here.
2008
- The year was relatively quiet. No hospital visits but I had to
push Dennis to perform his therapy exercises as prescribed
by the doctor. This was our major concentration this year - to try
and get him up and motivated to live life. Read about our ongoing
battle by clicking here.
2009
- We have finally moved into our new home and it is hoped that will
improve Dennis' attitude. He has become extremely recluse and only
leaves the house to go see the doctors. Read about our present situation
by clicking here.
