Through working directly with patients over the past nine years and helping them to manage their condition, I have seen first-hand the impact that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has – not just on those living with it, but on their loved ones, too. So, it’s been brilliant to see that the ‘You, Me & COPD’ roadshow from pharmaceutical company Chiesi UK, in association with Asthma + Lung UK, is hitting the road again after a successful pilot last year. The roadshow, featuring a mobile support hub, is travelling across England, stopping in four areas with high rates of COPD. It aims to offer a safe and informative space for those living with the condition, and to make people aware of the signs and symptoms.
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Over one million people in the UK are living with COPD, a respiratory disease affecting the lungs. COPD can cause a variety of symptoms including coughing and wheezing, and can vary in severity. And it can sometimes be an isolating condition; during appointments, my COPD patients can at times feel hesitant to ask for more information about their condition, and it’s largely due to a fear of judgement or discrimination.
When visiting the mobile hub, people living with COPD and their friends and family members can access information, support and speak to healthcare professionals (HCPs) like me onsite about the condition without judgement. We’re on-hand to share information on local COPD support services, advice to help people manage their condition, and to direct people to safe spaces beyond the mobile hub. I attended the pilot last year and the first roadshow event this year in Salford, and had some really meaningful conversations with patients, carers, and visitors.
From my experience, patients really value meeting others in similar situations, and welcome further information to become more aware of how to manage their condition. It’s important to ensure patients and their loved ones have spaces to talk about challenges and successes along their journey as they navigate living with COPD, since it is a long-term condition that can impact various aspects of their life. The ‘You, Me & COPD’ initiative bridges those gaps between the patient, HCPs and the general public to encourage dialogue about COPD and remind patients they are not alone.
The roadshow will be making three more stops in the coming months: in Bromborough (15–16 August 2024), Hartlepool (30–31 August 2024), and Leicester (planned for October). I’d encourage anyone affected by COPD to visit the ‘You, Me & COPD’ roadshow as it’s a fantastic opportunity for patients and carers to find information on living with the condition. To find out more, please visit www.youmeandcopd.co.uk.