Stan Liedtke has chronic lung disease. It's a condition he's lived with for years. But recently, Stan decided to do something about it. He joined the pulmonary rehabilitation program at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

The eight-week program offers classes on how to live with lung disease. Stan says he's learned better breathing, diet and exercise techniques.

"Well, I've lost a lot of weight. I've more than tripled my walking speed, and I am not on oxygen full-time now. So my quality of life has dramatically improved. I'm a lot stronger, more fit than I was."

Stan works closely with a team of specialists who have helped him make big strides during his recovery. Specialists say the program can be tailored to any patient.

"Come in and get evaluated. Come in and visit us and see the other people exercising, and chances are they started in the very same place that you did. There's something that can be done for everybody," says Janie Knipper, UI Health Care pulmonary rehabilitation specialist.

"The benefits are just so worthwhile," says Stan. "It's just an opportunity that you can have that will so dramatically change your life, if you're willing to work for it."

Stan says he'll continue his hard work, taking life one step at a time.

University of Iowa Health Care's pulmonary rehabilitation program meets three times a week for eight weeks. For people who do not live within commuting distance to Iowa City, there is an intensive, two-week course, with subsequent referral to a local facility. Call 319-356-8396 for information.

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Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program