Hospital: PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Victoria North
Diagnosis: Pulmonary rehabilitation
A couple of years ago, a fibrous tumor was discovered in Stephen Pedersen’s lung. Over time, the tumor grew two more centimeters, putting pressure on the right atrium of his heart. Mr. Pedersen had developed worsening shortness of breath as the tumor grew. Before undergoing surgery to remove the tumor, his pulmonologist referred Mr. Pedersen to PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Victoria North for outpatient pulmonary therapy to improve his lung function to prepare for surgery.
At the beginning of Mr. Pedersen’s therapy treatment, he was unable to even take out his trash at home without becoming short of breath. He was no longer able to work either. Working diligently with our outpatient pulmonary therapy team, Mr. Pedersen made tremendous progress. His shortness of breath decreased while his endurance increased. By discharge, he only needed supplemental oxygen while exercising, and he nearly doubled his walking distance in the six-minute walk test – and did it without supplemental oxygen, to boot! One of Mr. Pedersen’s proudest moments during his therapy course was when he went all day without supplemental oxygen. He knew that achievement would not have been possible without his therapy at PAM Health!
He appreciated his “easygoing” and encouraging RTs who not only provided great therapy but also invaluable education about nutrition, proper exercise, and consistency. Mr. Pedersen is extremely excited to return to work and doing projects around the house without the hassle of toting around oxygen or feeling short of breath. Bravo, Mr. Pedersen!
“Nothing happens overnight…It’s the little defining moments of progress at a time. This program works and is worth it.” -Stephen Pedersen
