News Releases

Pulmonary Rehab Program at USM Celebrates its 25th Year

March 22, 2006

A specialized exercise program that has helped hundreds of victims of chronic lung disease improve the quality of their lives is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at USM's Lifeline Center for Wellness and Health Promotion was founded in 1981 when Len Jordan, manager of Lifeline's rehab programs, and
pulmonologist William Demicco of Mercy Hospital saw a need for a structured exercise program that could help victims of chronic bronchitis, emphysema and other pulmonary diseases. The program, the first of its kind in the region, has served more than 2,500 people.

Physicians refer patients to the program. Through tailored exercise, education and peer support, participants are able to improve cardiovascular and skeletal conditioning, making daily living easier. Classes, which are led under medical supervision, are held twice weekly for three-month periods throughout the year.

EDITOR'S NOTE/MEDIA COVERAGE: The next pulmonary rehab class during the 25th anniversary week will be held from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., this Thursday, March 23, in USM's Sullivan Gymnasium, Falmouth St., Portland. Staff and patients will be available for interviews. The 20 to 30 patients will be participating in a variety of exercises. Their blood pressure and other vital signs will be monitored throughout the class.

MORE INFORMATION: Contact Len Jordan, manger of Lifeline's rehabilitation programs, at 780-4573. For help arranging a story, you may also contact Bob Caswell of USM Public Affairs, at 780-4200, caswell@usm.maine.edu.   

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