Mick shares his experience of living with chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA). After a serious lung bleed and hospital admission, his care and daily life changed significantly. In this video, he talks about treatment, ambulatory oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation and the adjustments he has made over time.
A serious bleed and changes to care
Mick describes being taken to hospital after a serious bleed. A CT scan showed changes that had not been apparent on his X-rays. His team made a treatment plan that included antifungal treatment and embolisation. After discharge, an oxygen assessment led to him using ambulatory oxygen.
Mick describes a serious bleed in his own experience. This is not something everyone with CPA will experience. If you cough up blood, follow your healthcare team’s advice about what to do.
Pulmonary rehabilitation and social connection
Mick valued the education sessions that were part of pulmonary rehabilitation, alongside the exercise. He describes learning techniques from respiratory physiotherapists and how rehabilitation helped him understand more about living with a progressive lung condition.
He also reflects on how breathlessness and difficulty walking can make it harder to go out and stay socially connected. Support from his partner, friends and patient groups has been important to him. He describes joining creative and social activities where people can spend time together without needing to focus on illness.
Finding new ways to enjoy familiar interests
As his mobility changed, Mick began using aids such as a mobility scooter and adapted how he managed everyday tasks. He has also found new activities at home, including model making, crafts and jigsaws. Online walking and travel videos let him revisit places he would like to see.
Mick’s story is about adjusting to change, keeping in touch with other people and looking for ways to continue doing things that matter to him.
This is Mick’s personal experience, not medical advice. Speak with your healthcare team about pulmonary rehabilitation, oxygen, breathing techniques or mobility support.
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