When Teresa Mauldin began her journey with SGMC Health Berrien’s Pulmonary Rehabilitation program, walking to her mailbox felt like climbing a mountain without enough oxygen. Living with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), even simple tasks were a struggle. But with the guidance of Amanda Skinner, Respiratory Therapist, Teresa found tools and techniques to regain her strength and breathe easier—transforming her quality of life.
“When you get short of breath, your instinct is to panic and try to take in as much air as you can through your mouth. Amanda taught me how to breathe the right way—with pursed lips and slower, deeper breaths through my nose. I didn’t know that breathing this way actually gives you more oxygen,” Teresa shared.
At the start of her 36-session program, Teresa relied on three liters of oxygen during exercise and could only manage seven minutes on a treadmill. By the end, she was exercising for up to 50 minutes on room air. “I couldn’t believe it,” Teresa said. “At first, I was scared I wouldn’t even make it onto the treadmill. But now, I can do so much more than I ever thought possible.”
Amanda commended Teresa’s determination and progress. “When she started, her anxiety was severe, and she doubted herself. But she worked hard, and the results speak for themselves. Pulmonary rehab doesn’t just strengthen your body—it builds confidence.”
Throughout her time at SGMC Health, Teresa felt supported at every turn. “From the front desk to the therapists, everyone made me feel cared for,” she said. Even during a setback that landed her in the hospital, Amanda personally checked on her, a gesture Teresa deeply appreciated.
For anyone hesitant to start pulmonary rehab, Teresa offers heartfelt encouragement: “I thought, ‘What can this really do for me?’ But it’s amazing what happens when you trust the process. It’s not just about your lungs—it’s about hope and living a fuller life.”
Pulmonary Rehabilitation at SGMC Health provides more than just exercise; it offers essential education to help patients understand and manage their condition. The program supports individuals with a variety of conditions, including COPD, asthma, bronchitis, lung cancer, and even complications from COVID-19.
To learn if pulmonary rehab is right for you, speak with your doctor about a referral. For more information on how pulmonary rehab can help, visit https://www.sgmc.org/our-services/pulmonary-rehabilitation/.