To learn more about the lung function test or The Better Breathing Center, please contact Shelley Spicher, intake and assessment coordinator, at 814.768.2325, or e-mail rehab@clearfieldhosp.org.

Both men are former smokers – Mr. Mahaffey quit several years ago, while Mr. Bradley gave up cigarettes in 1985.

Another commonality: they’re both recent graduates of The Better Breathing Center of Clearfield Hospital, a pulmonary rehabilitation program for people affected by chronic lung disease or other medical conditions that impact breathing.

Mr. Mahaffey, who had a section of his left lung removed five years ago after being diagnosed with lung cancer, enrolled in the program this past fall.

“I tired easily and became winded when doing simple things. When golfing, I had to rest after walking the green. I had a breathing test at my doctor’s and the results weren’t as good as they used to be. He suggested pulmonary rehabilitation,” Mr. Mahaffey explained.

For Mr. Bradley, admission came following a recent diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Dr. Bruno Romeo, medical director of The Better Breathing Center, believed Mr. Bradley would benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation.

“At first, I didn’t think I needed pulmonary rehab, but decided to follow my doctor’s advice and give it a try,” Mr. Bradley said.

About the Better Breathing Center

The Better Breathing Center is a multi-disciplinary, 12-week program of exercise, conditioning, endurance training, education and emotional support to people with chronic pulmonary diseases including asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, cystic fibrosis, lung resection or pre- and post-lung transplant and Black Lung. Smoking cessation counseling is also available.

The treatment team consisting of Dr. Romeo, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists and dietician works with patients on breathing retraining, pursed-lip breathing techniques and strength endurance.

It didn’t take long for Mr. Mahaffey and Mr. Bradley to realize the benefits.

“It was a tremendous learning experience. I didn’t realize there was a proper way to breathe. They taught me when I should inhale and exhale during activity. I feel much better, and that’s because I have more oxygen in my body. I have more energy too. I don’t doze off during the day like I used to,” Mr. Bradley said.

Mr. Mahaffey noticed an improvement after just one week.

“The pursed lip breathing and energy conservation techniques were beneficial. I went golfing the week after I started, and for the first time in awhile, I was able to walk the green without stopping, and was able to pick up the pin and hold it for others,” Mr. Mahaffey said.

Both men were impressed with the professionalism and knowledge of The Better Breathing Center staff.

“They definitely take their jobs seriously. There is absolutely no question in my mind that people who have breathing difficulties will benefit from this program. I strongly recommend it,” Mr. Bradley said.

Clearfield Hospital certified respiratory therapist Joe Brunner said Mr. Mahaffey and Mr. Bradley were excellent patients.

“They were willing to put in the time and effort needed to successfully complete the program and improve their health. Plus, they have a positive outlook, which is just as important,” Mr. Brunner said.

Results and Advice

Mr. Mahaffey and Mr. Bradley are hoping the weather breaks soon so they can use their newfound energy on the golf course. In the meantime, they continue to follow the lessons learned in pulmonary rehabilitation in their daily routines.

“I use the techniques when I’m working around the house and even before I go to sleep at night,” Mr. Mahaffey said.

Mr. Brunner said people concerned about breathing problems should ask their doctor about admission to The Better Breathing Center. Self-referrals are also accepted.

In addition, The Better Breathing Center offers a simple breathing test that can show how well a person’s lungs are functioning.

Those who should take this test include people who now smoke or have ever smoked; have a cough, wheezing, chest tightness or shortness of breath; bring up mucus when they cough; or have ever been exposed to fumes or second-hand smoke that may have affected their lungs.