The program is called ‘Breathe Better - Live Better’ and is available weekly in Mississauga at the Huron Park Recreation Centre, as well as the River Grove Community Centre, the Milton Sports Centre and the community center in Oakville.
The program targets those who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as COPD, which is one of the leading causes of mortality in the country. It is estimated that 780,000 residents of Ontario suffer from the long-term affliction which is often caused by smoking.
The education program will help people to learn how to manage and perhaps prevent COPD outside of the Ontario health-care system. Glenn Hayes, a Breath Better-Live Better attendee, said:
“I have a phobia about hospitals and medical clinics, so accessing this education program at my local community centre has been a big help. I am now aware of the tools available to me to help cope with my COPD such as exercise, proper nutrition, education to help correctly use smoking cessation tools and a support network. This has been a total lifestyle change for me. I walk three times a week, jog twice and have added weights and stretching which allows me to include something in my daily routine to keep me focused.”
Printing companies in the area can be called upon to help ensure the area’s residents are aware of the services on offer.