W.B.’s Story – COPD
Innovative respiratory therapy from PromptCare empowers COPD patient to reclaim his life—and every breath.
When W.B. woke up in his own bed, he had no memory of the last few weeks. The beeps of hospital monitors and the blur of doctors’ voices had faded away. What remained was the quiet hum of a new essential device—a custom noninvasive ventilator (NIV), precisely calibrated to support his breathing at home.
W.B.’s journey has been long and challenging. When he was first admitted to the hospital, his blood gas levels revealed a dangerously high carbon dioxide (CO2) level of 100 mmHg—far above the normal range of 35-45 mmHg. Barely conscious, he drifted in and out of awareness as his body struggled under the overwhelming burden of advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a lung condition that gradually diminished his ability to breathe freely.
Often triggered by long-term exposure to irritants like air pollution, cigarette smoke, or harmful chemicals, COPD slowly damages airways in the lungs, making it harder to move oxygen in and carbon dioxide out. As W.B.’s condition advanced over the years, his breathing became more labored. Relentless coughing, breathlessness, and fatigue began to take over, turning every breath into a struggle—and drastically affecting his quality of life.
For W.B., nearing respiratory failure was a critical turning point. Immediate, lifesaving care became the priority. That’s when PromptCare’s Caleb Hedges, RRT, stepped in. After W.B.’s discharge from the hospital, Caleb focused on stabilizing his breathing and bringing down elevated carbon dioxide levels. A noninvasive ventilator proved to be a game-changer, providing vital support without the need for intubation. This approach enabled his lungs to rest and regain strength, marking the beginning of a new chapter on his path to better health.
As his lead respiratory therapist, Caleb was central to helping W.B. adjust to his new normal. From fine-tuning the fit of his NIV mask to troubleshooting airflow issues, Caleb ensures he’s comfortable and well-supported. Together they review his medications, walk through his mask-cleaning protocol, and address any concerns that arise. When W.B. struggled with dry air, Caleb introduced a humidifier—a small adjustment that made a world of difference to his comfort. These changes are thoughtfully implemented, with a focus on making the therapy as simple and seamless as possible, empowering W.B. to stay out of the hospital and live his best life at home.
With the support of a noninvasive ventilator, his life transformed dramatically. No longer confined to his home, W.B. spends his days going on lunch dates with his wife, Margaret, and cherishing outings with their kids and grandkids. He’s become so active that he now schedules his therapy sessions with Caleb well in advance to fit around his busy calendar. “Caleb is a jewel,” says Margaret. “He is so kind, attentive, and just like family. W.B. is doing so well, and we couldn’t have asked for anyone better than Caleb.”
W.B.’s commitment to therapy, guided by Caleb’s care, meant that within weeks, he looked and felt like a different person—more alert, coherent, and deeply engaged with life. Each morning, he wakes up with steady, clear breaths and the energy to face the day. With Margaret and Caleb by his side to ensure his respiratory health, he’s not just surviving—he’s thriving, embracing life with a renewed sense of freedom and vitality.
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