tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82160089728168532552024-03-14T00:12:46.064-07:00The Open-Aire CafeRead stories from our customers who have had their lives changed by portable oxygen concentrators and power mobility equipment.Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.comBlogger80125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-72148594304573598292017-04-05T10:55:00.000-07:002017-04-05T10:58:45.931-07:00The Sky's The LimitRichard W. of Danville, IN is so happy with his portable oxygen concentrator from Open-Aire that he says, <em>“it makes me want to stand on my head!”</em> He had been using oxygen for several years, and was very unhappy with all the limitations oxygen tanks had put on his life. When he learned about portable oxygen concentrators he thought that was exactly what he needed. <em>“I didn’t even know this was an option,”</em> he says. When his old provider would not offer him one, he looked around for a new company and found <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>. A few weeks later, he got an OxyGo from Open-Aire, and couldn’t be happier.<br />
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Now Richard plans on using his portable oxygen concentrator to do something he has wanted to do for a long time. His son has a pilot’s license and Richard has wanted to go flying with him. But, due to the small planes he flies, oxygen tanks are not allowed onboard. However, portable oxygen concentrators are allowed on planes.<em> “Before, I couldn’t go on with an oxygen tank, but that’s not going to stop me anymore.”</em> Now the sky is the limit for Richard, and he’s finally going to fly with his son.Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-43911604384720221482017-03-28T11:05:00.000-07:002017-03-28T11:44:13.997-07:00The Tiny Little ConcentratorRebecca H. of Elon, NC loves her OxyGo Fit portable oxygen concentrator provided by <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>. She lives in an assisted living community, and her portable concentrator or <em>"pocketbook"</em> as she calls it, has made a world of difference for her. With it, she's able to go out and do things around town. There’s a local college nearby, where she takes classes on biblical dance and literature. It's quiet enough that she is able to run it the entire time without interrupting the teacher’s lectures. Her family also drops by for visits and they'll take her out to lunch or to do some shopping. <br />
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Her portable concentrator has also gotten a lot of notice around the community. Rebecca says, <em>"We go to the dining room for our meals, and there are two other ladies [that] are on oxygen besides me. They have huge tanks. They keep asking me over and over again about my tiny little concentrator." </em>She tells them that Open-Aire is the place to go!Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-31495011797409051142017-02-17T09:07:00.000-08:002017-02-17T09:11:32.113-08:00"They're the Best"Larry B. of Lois, SC learned about <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> from a source that even surprised us. Larry had been on oxygen for about seven years, and used a portable oxygen concentrator during that time. He liked being able to pick up and go and not having to be tied down to stationary concentrators. When it broke down, his old provider refused to repair it or even politely offer an alternative solution. <em>“They told me I didn’t really need it, and it was only a convenience,”</em> said Larry. <em>“Their customer service had always been bad, but this was the last straw.”</em> <br />
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Larry checked another local oxygen provider, and while they were friendly they couldn’t provide him with a portable concentrator. However, they did give him a very nice suggestion. <em>“They told me when it comes to portable oxygen, Open-Aire is the company you want to work with. They’re the best,”</em> says Larry. <em>“When one company tells you to check out a competitor, you should listen.”</em> <br />
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With a recommendation from the competition, Larry went to Open-Aire for the portable oxygen concentrator he was looking for, and also got the customer service he wanted. <em> “My doctor had just changed practices, and was still getting up to speed in his new office. Open-Aire helped him out and made things real easy for him.”</em> Now Larry is back to being able to pick up and go anytime and anywhere he wants. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-3509991871673196612016-12-14T06:54:00.000-08:002016-12-14T06:54:09.093-08:00"Like a Miracle"W.J. of Hardinsburg, KY is a new oxygen patient, but he has very quickly come to appreciate how much of a difference his portable oxygen concentrator has made in his life. In fact, <em>"it's like a miracle,"</em> he says. Currently, W.J. is undergoing weekly treatment at his local hospital, and has regular doctor appointments. He is out of his home 4 or 5 times a week, and with this kind of schedule standard oxygen tanks would not work for him. <em>"I used oxygen tanks for a short time, but they were too heavy."</em><br />
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Fortunately, W.J. was referred to <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> and he was able to get a lightweight portable oxygen concentrator that has greatly reduced the burden of his hospital trips. Now that the tanks are gone, his trips to the hospital are much easier. <em>"One battery is all it takes,"</em> he says. <em>"That gets me to the hospital. I use their equipment while I’m there, and when it’s time to leave my portable oxygen concentrator is still ready to go." </em> We wish W.J. the best, and hope his trips to the hospital end soon so he can return to an active and mobile life.Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-25751094337681226542016-11-22T09:30:00.000-08:002016-11-22T09:39:34.862-08:00Destination: Grand CanyonJohn Z. of Hanover Park, IL is a real explorer. This past summer he took his portable oxygen concentrator on a road trip across America. Starting in Illinois, John made a 2,000 mile drive along historic Route 66 until he reached his destination, The Grand Canyon. <em>"It was a long, but beautiful trip,"</em> says John. Along the way he made stops at many restaurants, museums, and other national landmarks like Meteor Crater in Arizona and the Continental Divide. The whole drive was possible due to his portable oxygen concentrator. <br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0QfkQmJgp8/WDSCvUFSi2I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/dTXzz6LoDBcHCHdz0SH5gBlLAHuh86c3gCLcB/s1600/GrandCanyon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0QfkQmJgp8/WDSCvUFSi2I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/dTXzz6LoDBcHCHdz0SH5gBlLAHuh86c3gCLcB/s320/GrandCanyon.jpg" width="320" /></a>With his portable concentrator he didn’t need to worry about driving with dozens of oxygen tanks. Instead, all he needed to do was plug it into his car’s cigarette lighter and begin his day’s drive without worrying about running out of oxygen. <em>"We averaged about 400 miles a day for 5 days. I don’t see how I could have done that using oxygen tanks."</em> <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> is happy that we could help John on his amazing road trip, and look forward to hearing about where he goes next. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-2346725438423425322016-11-01T12:18:00.000-07:002016-11-01T12:23:39.550-07:00November is National COPD Awareness Month.<span style="color: #0b5394;">This observance is a time to raise awareness among those afflicted, healthcare providers, and the communities in which we live.</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: #0b5394;">Did you know?</span></strong><br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)</span> is the third-leading cause of death in the United States. The disease kills more than 120,000 Americans each year – that’s <span style="color: #0b5394;">one death</span> every <span style="color: #0b5394;">four minutes</span> – and causes serious, long-term disability. The number of people with COPD is increasing. More than 12 million people are diagnosed with COPD and an additional 12 million likely have the disease and don’t even know it. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends the following:<br />
<br />
1. Be aware of the risk factors<br />
2. Recognize the symptoms<br />
3. Ask your physician or healthcare provider about a simple breathing test<br />
4. Follow treatment advice<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strong>Key risk factors for COPD:</strong></span><br />
If you…<br />
<ul>
<li>have shortness of breath, chronic cough, or have trouble performing simple daily tasks like climbing stairs, grocery shopping, or laundry;</li>
<li>are over age 40 and currently smoke or used to smoke;</li>
<li>have worked or lived around lung irritants like chemicals or fumes; have certain genetic conditions;</li>
</ul>
… you could be at risk for COPD.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strong>If you are at risk for COPD:</strong></span><br />
<ul>
<li>Talk with your healthcare provider about shortness of breath, chronic cough, or decline in activity level.</li>
<li>Get a simple breathing test, also known as spirometry.</li>
<li>Quit smoking. Need help? Talk to your physician or healthcare provider.</li>
<li>Avoid pollutants or fumes that can irritate your lungs.</li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #0b5394;"><strong>Manage your COPD:</strong></span><br />
<ul>
<li>Take medication as directed by your physician or healthcare provider.</li>
<li>Use oxygen therapy if prescribed by your physician or healthcare provider.</li>
<li>Enroll in a pulmonary rehabilitation program.</li>
<li>Avoid pollutants or fumes that can irritate your lungs.</li>
<li>Get flu and pneumonia shots as directed by your physician or healthcare provider.</li>
</ul>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-75838093340917952442016-09-20T11:00:00.000-07:002016-09-20T11:10:57.503-07:00The HandymanJames B. of Las Vegas, NV had only been on oxygen a short time the day he saw a commercial for <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire’s</a> portable oxygen concentrators. <em>“A small concentrator that you can fly with? That sounds better than what I have,”</em> he thought to himself. He soon called and started working with Open-Aire’s case managers. He was able to get a portable concentrator through Medicare and his supplemental insurance, and had a great experience during the entire process. <em>“The employees were absolutely super the whole way through." </em>Now he’s getting ready to fly to Phoenix, AZ to visit family, and preparing for another trip back east later in the year.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-coXVw6TJzrI/V-F3jf4lRaI/AAAAAAAAAOU/BSyUFDoEeHM1aeCYtIoM3DQs6vEy41OGQCEw/s1600/method-Adjustable-wrench-icon-style-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-coXVw6TJzrI/V-F3jf4lRaI/AAAAAAAAAOU/BSyUFDoEeHM1aeCYtIoM3DQs6vEy41OGQCEw/s200/method-Adjustable-wrench-icon-style-1.png" width="200" /></a>Traveling isn’t the only thing that has become an easier experience. James is even able to get back to doing his home handiwork. <em>“A few days ago I replaced a sink and faucet and had my portable oxygen concentrator going the whole time. And I got it done too!”</em> says James. He does it all from start to finish. He goes to his local hardware store, grabs a shopping cart, puts his portable oxygen concentrator in it, and starts looking for all the things he needs to get the job done. <em>“I can take my time and walk around like it’s not even there.”</em> James has other projects that will be keeping him busy, and his portable oxygen concentrator will ensure he’s able to do them. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com45tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-27496357750090188332016-08-03T07:07:00.001-07:002016-08-03T07:40:40.520-07:00The Freedom to Mow!Jerry B. of Mansfield, OH always took great pride in his lawn. Every weekend he would spend his time trimming bushes, weeding, and mowing. <em> "I start mowing from one angle and then switch to the other angle on the next pass to give it a checkerboard look. Neighbors would tell me I manicure my yard, and not just cut it,"</em> says Jerry. However when he was prescribed oxygen tanks, he could no longer do it. Trying to mow while dragging an oxygen tank on the grass was just too difficult.
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MiGuI68Xs_0/V6H44nlwrcI/AAAAAAAAANw/X04ZNYaJhqEoZldLvi8eaHcpUOhkkLO8gCEw/s1600/mowert%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MiGuI68Xs_0/V6H44nlwrcI/AAAAAAAAANw/X04ZNYaJhqEoZldLvi8eaHcpUOhkkLO8gCEw/s320/mowert%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a>For several years Jerry was stuck with oxygen tanks, limited to what he could do, and feeling very confined. Simply leaving his house was difficult, and taking care of his lawn like he used to was out of the question. However, one day he saw a commercial for <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> and thought maybe a portable concentrator could be an alternative to oxygen tanks. After speaking with his doctor and Open-Aire case managers, it was determined that a portable concentrator could be a great option for him. Once he was given the go-ahead he did not waste time in switching from tanks to a portable oxygen concentrator.
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Once he had his portable oxygen concentrator, Jerry was able to mow his lawn again for the <strong>first time in three years</strong>. He tells us,<em> "I still can’t do it all at once. I have to take a couple breaks, but I get it done and it looks great!"</em> Now Jerry's lawn is looking manicured again, and the compliments from the neighbors have returned. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-41864282713162131692016-07-19T06:58:00.000-07:002016-07-19T06:58:45.926-07:00Not Enough TanksWhen Richard R. of <a href="http://www.townofrosendale.com/" target="_blank">Rosendale, NY</a> was using oxygen tanks he never had enough. A single oxygen tank wasn't good for anything. One tank wasn’t even enough to get him to his doctor’s office and back home. No matter where he went or what he did, he always had to bring several spares with him, and even then if an appointment ran late he could run out of oxygen. One time while visiting friends at a nursing home, he had to borrow THEIR oxygen because he had run out. <br />
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Finally, after seeing a commercial for <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/oxygen" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>, he thought a portable oxygen concentrator would eliminate his constant need for extra oxygen tanks. Open-Aire case managers helped him through the process, and soon he was able to enjoy portable oxygen.
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Now he can finally go outside the house for more than a short time, and doesn’t have to worry about running out of oxygen. Richard says, <em>"yesterday I went to the doctor, did some shopping, yapped it up with a couple of buddies and when I got home I still had plenty of battery life."</em> While he was at the doctor’s office he enthusiastically showed it off to her. His doctor was happy he wasn’t using tanks anymore and told him that if he had any issues she would help resolve the problem. Richard just smiled at her, pointed to his portable concentrator and said, <em>"the problem has already been resolved."</em>Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-5701587046914280352016-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:002016-06-20T06:00:33.208-07:00Keep it Cool<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGHnjqsYL1A/V2GFCVVYmdI/AAAAAAAAANY/v1w2DFfKepwsmdOkwswQPzl3dUw7xO59ACLcB/s1600/summerheat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGHnjqsYL1A/V2GFCVVYmdI/AAAAAAAAANY/v1w2DFfKepwsmdOkwswQPzl3dUw7xO59ACLcB/s320/summerheat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Summer has arrived and along with it hot weather. High temperatures bring several health concerns, but oxygen patients who use portable concentrators have an extra one – overheating units. Most portable concentrators are very durable and can endure extra warm temperatures, but under certain circumstances overheating is possible. Here are a few helpful tips to keep your portable oxygen concentrator cool. These simple rules can help you all year long, but are especially important during the summer months.<br />
<br />
<strong>Preventing Overheating</strong><br />
<ul>
<li>Be sure the vents for your portable oxygen concentrator are unblocked.</li>
<li>Do not leave it in a car with the windows up or in small spaces where it can become especially hot.</li>
<li>Do not use it while carrying it in a backpack or sack that does not have ventilation.</li>
</ul>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-14089544538527460602016-04-21T11:55:00.000-07:002016-04-22T12:21:09.973-07:00Getting out of the Man-Cave<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OoBs7H7xcO8/Vxp5euHcbdI/AAAAAAAAAMo/T6Aa-fV0wBswHUbcBpX8rRz7-OuWu1bygCLcB/s1600/dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OoBs7H7xcO8/Vxp5euHcbdI/AAAAAAAAAMo/T6Aa-fV0wBswHUbcBpX8rRz7-OuWu1bygCLcB/s320/dog.jpg" width="276" /></a>David L. of Willow Spring, NC is a long-time Open-Aire customer - almost 6 years! Prior to using a portable oxygen concentrator David was using oxygen tanks, but he never liked using them. <em>"It was tough to get out of the house because you can't stay out for more than a couple hours," </em>says David. Being on oxygen along with a few other health problems forced him into a position where he didn’t want to leave his house anymore. So if he was going to be stuck at home, he was going to make himself comfortable. He put together a man-cave for himself. <em>"It's got a recliner, TV, mini-fridge, and everything I need. I hang out in there with my <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chihuahua_(dog)" target="_blank">chihuahua</a>, Nester." </em><br />
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As nice as his man-cave was, it wasn’t enough. David wasn’t trying to travel far, he just wanted to get out of the house a little bit more and enjoy life. Around the time he found out about portable oxygen concentrators from <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> from an online ad. After a quick call, an Open-Aire case manager helped him switch from his old provider and set him up with a portable oxygen concentrator. <br />
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He still uses that great man-cave of his today, but now he's able to spend afternoons out of the house doing things he likes to do. He takes trips around town, goes out to eat and attends some local auctions where he recently won a very expensive vacuum cleaner with a bid of just a few dollars. Best of all it allows him to be a little more active. And now that the weather is warming up again that means more walks for Nester. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-33495293925112716522016-03-28T11:26:00.001-07:002016-03-28T11:26:31.261-07:00Time for Spring Cleaning<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqxSacCtCn0/VvlxElwaSZI/AAAAAAAAAIg/Gs8ZqBw7d8EsH37tWn1Qm8Dff-ghAJ8ew/s1600/Springpic.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jqxSacCtCn0/VvlxElwaSZI/AAAAAAAAAIg/Gs8ZqBw7d8EsH37tWn1Qm8Dff-ghAJ8ew/s320/Springpic.png" width="320" /></a>Spring is here, and you’re probably already busy doing some spring cleaning around your house. But are you taking the time to clean your portable oxygen concentrator as well? Regularly cleaning your portable oxygen concentrator helps to keep it running at its’ optimum performance level, and can extend the life of the unit. Hopefully this something you already do, but if it isn’t now is the perfect time to start. Air filters in particular need regular maintenance the most. Here are some tips from Open-Aire on how to keep your unit’s air filter clean, and that will help your portable oxygen concentrator run without problems. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<strong><em>Maintenance Tips – Air Filter</em></strong></div>
<ul>
<li>Clean the Air Filter in your portable oxygen concentrator at least once a week.</li>
<li>If your device has a micro filter, clean it with warm water. Allow it to dry before replacing it.</li>
<li>For devices without a removable filter, use a dry cotton swap or soft brush to remove debris from inlet vents.</li>
</ul>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-26736230843647328112015-12-16T08:16:00.000-08:002016-06-20T06:45:51.802-07:00Feeling ValuedBefore she was with Open-Aire, Rosemary M. of East Chicago,
IN had an oxygen provider who was anything but interested in her as a customer.
One time she ran out of oxygen tanks and they couldn’t deliver new ones. After that experience, she knew it was
time to find a new oxygen provider.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> One
that would value her as a customer, and would provide something other than
tanks. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Oxygen tanks were a big hassle for Rosemary. She likes to go
into <a href="http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en.html" target="_blank">downtown Chicago</a> to meet with her friends for lunch and shopping, but the
tanks made it extremely difficult. She could no longer take the train to get to
town. Instead, she had to drive and ask her friends to help her carry her
replacement tanks.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">It only took her two months to realize this would not do.
She started a quest to find a new provider. She spoke to a few different
companies, but none of them seemed very interested in her. That changed when
she found Open-Aire. The Case Manager she worked with was eager to help her
out, and find the right portable oxygen concentrator for her. <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> was able to work with her doctor to
get her a portable oxygen concentrator quickly, and made her feel valued as a
customer the entire time. </span><br />
<br />
<em>“Customer
service is very important to me,”</em> says Rosemary. <em>“Everyone at Open-Aire has
been very pleasant. Not just polite. You can hear that they are interested in
their voice. They take an interest. They went beyond my expectations.”</em>
</div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-20319405120784620542015-11-23T06:27:00.001-08:002016-06-20T06:49:48.365-07:00Doing Your Job With HeartWhen Genette D. of <a href="http://www.stpaul.gov/" target="_blank">St. Paul, MN</a> began having difficulty
walking she was sent to a <a href="http://stopfalls.org/" target="_blank">Falls Clinic</a>, where physicians and physical
therapists taught her how to properly use her walker and showed her other
techniques that would help her maintain her balance. Unfortunately as her
arthritis and fibromyalgia worsened the therapy and lessons she learned in the
Falls Clinic weren’t enough, and she and her doctor both agreed that a power
wheelchair would be the best for her.<br /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Once she began looking for a power wheelchair, Genette found
a local company, but it was a disaster for her. She says, “<i>they put me
through all these hurdles. Month after month and nothing happened. Eventually
they told me I was denied, but when I contacted Medicare they told me the
paperwork had never even been filed</i>. <i>They took months of mobility away
from me by wasting my time.”</i> Genette and her doctor knew she was
qualified though, so they asked Medicare directly who she could work with, and
they told her <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/mobility" target="_blank">Open-Aire Mobility Division</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Working with Open-Aire Mobility was a completely different
experience for her. Case Managers responded to her and worked with her, her
doctor, and Medicare to handle the process quickly and efficiently. Genette had
a wonderful experience, and explains it better than we ever could. “<i>I
used to be healthy and active. I was a waitress. I could run circles around
teenagers. Deteriorating like this has been hard, but you were there for
me. It’s not that you just did your job, but you did it with heart. When
you do it with heart and care that makes us appreciate things even more.”</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
Thank you for the kind words Genette. It was a pleasure to
help you regain your mobility. <o:p></o:p></div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-37862043635257795202015-11-16T08:05:00.000-08:002015-11-16T10:16:21.237-08:00COPD Awareness - Did You Know?COPD Awareness Month continues, and Open-Aire would like to share some more information with you about COPD.<br />
<ul>
<li>Lung damage in COPD patients is irreversible. </li>
<li>Smoking is the primary risk factor for COPD. </li>
<li>COPD often co-exists with chronic bronchitis and emphysema.</li>
<li>Common symptoms of COPD include breathlessness even after mild exertion and chronic coughing.</li>
</ul>
<br />
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Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-76978508092877932432015-11-05T06:49:00.000-08:002016-06-20T06:54:57.717-07:00COPD Awareness - The Facts<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l9E5j-Lx4jQ/VjtnXUeIcBI/AAAAAAAAAH4/RPmbPTNgku8/s1600/COPD%2BAwareness%2BMonth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l9E5j-Lx4jQ/VjtnXUeIcBI/AAAAAAAAAH4/RPmbPTNgku8/s320/COPD%2BAwareness%2BMonth.jpg" width="297" /></a>November marks the beginning of COPD Awareness Month.
Open-Aire recognizes that COPD affects millions of Americans each year, and we
want to share some facts about it to help educate others. For more
information about COPD including signs and symptoms, how to manage COPD, and
finding support please visit the following websites or speak to your physician.
</div>
<br>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="http://www.copd.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.copd.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="http://www.copdfoundation.org/"><span style="color: blue;">www.copdfoundation.org</span></a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="http://www.lung.org/"><span style="color: blue;">www.lung.org</span></a></span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
</div>
<br />
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-30316256030099853862015-10-14T10:59:00.000-07:002015-10-14T10:59:40.608-07:00Falls are in the PastFor many years Elvira B. of Oxford, MI had a difficult time walking. <a href="http://www.lupus.org/answers/entry/what-is-lupus" target="_blank">Lupus</a> and arthritis were affecting her joints, and it got to the point where she had to use a walker. That was okay for a couple years, but recently even using the walker became a struggle, and she was starting to fall. A few months ago she suffered a bad fall, and hurt her left leg very badly. After that her doctor decided the walker wasn't right for her anymore, and that a power wheelchair would be better for her. He recommended working with <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/mobility/" target="_blank">Open-Aire Mobility Division</a>. In just a few days, Open-Aire Mobility case managers were working with her doctor and Medicare, setting up appointments, and handling the paperwork. Shortly after, Elvira had her new power wheelchair. <br />
<br />
Elvira says, <em>"I would recommend my power wheelchair and Open-Aire Mobility to anyone. In fact, I already have!"</em> Elvira lives in an independent living facility, and has a good friend who is having difficulty walking due to <a href="http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/parkinsons_disease/parkinsons_disease.htm" target="_blank">Parkinson's Disease</a>. <em>"We've talked about my power wheelchair a lot and how much I like it. Now her doctor is going to help her get one too."</em> Open-Aire is happy to hear how satisfied Elvira is, and looks forward to helping out her friend. Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-86776889555802603382015-08-19T10:23:00.000-07:002015-08-19T10:23:22.440-07:00No Excuse Not to ExerciseWhen Michael M. of West Valley City, Utah was diagnosed with COPD his doctor stressed to him the importance of exercise for maintaining good health. "<em>That’s a nice idea, but it’s too hard and awkward to exercise with heavy oxygen equipment,"</em> he says. Fortunately he did not have to deal with oxygen tanks or other heavy equipment for too long before he saw a commercial for <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>. He found Open-Aire quick and easy to deal with, and it wasn’t too long before he had a new portable oxygen concentrator. <br />
<br />
Michael really appreciates the mobility his portable oxygen concentrator allows him. Now he’s able to be more active and do the <a href="http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases_conditions/hic_Understanding_COPD/hic_Coping_with_COPD/hic_COPD_Exercise_and_Activity_Guidelines" target="_blank">exercise that he’s supposed to do</a>. He also discovered that one of the additional accessories has allowed him even greater freedom. Michael says, "<em>The backpack* is really handy. I put it on and my hands are free. It makes it easier to exercise. I can use the treadmill or ride the stationary bike without any problems."</em> <br />
<br />
Besides the gym, Michael also stays active by using his portable oxygen concentrator while he works around the house and in his backyard. While doing some yard work a few other people have noticed him using it. His neighbor was recently diagnosed with <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/copd/basics/definition/con-20032017" target="_blank">COPD</a> and when he saw Michael using his, he had a lot of questions about it. <em> "After he saw mine he was sold. Now he’s getting one too!"</em><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">*Backpacks are not part of the portable oxygen concentrators insurance set up package, but are available for purchase along with other accessories.</span>Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-23895807079913954332015-06-17T06:39:00.000-07:002015-06-17T06:44:10.650-07:00A Nurse Who Knows What She WantsJanet M. of <a href="http://www.tampagov.net/">Tampa, FL</a> worked as a nurse for many years, and was well aware of the difficulties oxygen patients had to deal with from their equipment. When she was prescribed oxygen she knew right away that she did not want to use oxygen tanks. After she was prescribed, Janet tells us, "<i>a local oxygen provider that works with my doctor's office brought tanks over to my home and I rejected them!" </i>The provider wasn't able to get her a portable oxygen concentrator, so she went out and found <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/">Open-Aire</a>. <br />
<br />
That was over four years ago. Janet has been a long time customer and is using the OxyGo by Applied Home Healthcare Equipment. "<i>It's by far the most convenient</i>," says Janet. She takes it wherever she goes, including on her summer trips to <a href="http://www.discovernewengland.org/">New England</a> where she visits her children in Massachusetts and Vermont. Open-Aire looks forward to being Janet's preferred oxygen provider for four more years, and many more after that.
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-56172424779520077062015-06-02T08:39:00.000-07:002015-06-02T08:42:00.509-07:00Impressing Everyone<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><div class="MsoNormal">Frances J. of <a href="http://www.villageofparma.org/" target="_blank">Parma, MI</a> lost part of a lung back in
2004 during a surgery for her cancer. Since then she had been using oxygen off
and on, until last year when she was prescribed full-time use. At that point
she had enough experience using tanks to know she did not want to use them
full-time. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I used to go out a lot and do
some traveling. I couldn’t do that any longer with oxygen tanks. With a tank, I
can only be out for a couple hours at a time.”</i> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A life with oxygen tanks wasn’t going to work for Frances.
Fortunately she learned about Open-Aire’s portable oxygen concentrators, and
with some help from her doctors and <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> case managers it wasn’t long
before she was able to have one of her own. Frances’ doctors are very impressed
with her portable oxygen concentrator. Her primary physician recommended Open-Aire
to another of his patients who wants to continue playing golf. Her
<a href="http://www.healthcommunities.com/copd/what-is-pulmonary-specialist.shtml" target="_blank">pulmonologist</a> has started to recommend portable concentrators to some of his
other patients as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even her previous oxygen provider seems impressed. Once Frances was comfortable
with her portable oxygen concentrator, she called her previous provider to pick
up her old equipment. He insisted that it wouldn’t work, and asked if he could
see it. Frances
happily showed it to him. Frances
says, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“While he was looking at it I told
him I have up to 12 hours of use at a time with it. After that he said ‘okay I
give up’ and left with my old equipment.”</i> </div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-58811435745878330602015-05-19T09:04:00.001-07:002015-05-19T09:04:57.695-07:00"It's Made Things so Much Better"<div class="MsoNormal">
After a few months of using liquid oxygen and tanks<span style="color: #1f497d;">,</span> Robert L. of Florence, South Carolina began to
get frustrated with all the inconveniences of traditional oxygen equipment.
Simple trips out of the house were difficult. <i>"It felt like I was handicapped
with the regular oxygen equipment. I couldn’t do anything,"</i> says Robert.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His daughter and grandchildren live 100 miles away from him.
Robert likes to visit them on occasion and spend a few days at their home. In
order to do that he would have to load up his car with oxygen tanks. Not only
was that dangerous, but that would barely last him a weekend. Shorter day trips
to <a href="http://www.visitmyrtlebeach.com/" target="_blank">Myrtle Beach</a>, which is only 45 minutes away, weren’t much easier either.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eventually he asked his oxygen provider for a portable
concentrator. However, they said they could not provide him with one.
Fortunately for Robert, as he did research on portable oxygen concentrators he
found an ad on the internet for <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>. Once he contacted Open-Aire he found
the process very easy. The case managers helped him and worked with his doctor
every step of the way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now Robert is a big fan of Open-Aire and talks about the
company and his equipment whenever he gets a chance. <i>"I go to a <a href="http://www.copdfoundation.org/Learn-More/Pulmonary-Rehabilitation/What-is-Pulmonary-Rehabilitation.aspx" target="_blank">pulmonary rehab program</a> at my local hospital and I show off my portable oxygen
concentrator to everyone when I’m there. It's made things so much better."
</i>We appreciate the kind words and the recommendations from Robert.
</div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-11389408463101775152015-05-05T09:00:00.000-07:002015-05-05T09:00:06.434-07:00A Traveling Grandmother, Mom and Sister<div class="MsoNormal">
Betty V. of Spearfish, ND has been with <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> for over
four years and in that time she's experienced many of the conveniences that come
with a portable oxygen concentrator. She doesn't have to schedule tank
deliveries and she doesn’t worry about running out of oxygen. Her favorite thing
is just being able to get up and go!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>"I'm very pleased with my portable oxygen concentrator. I
have more freedom than before. I can get out and go. I don't just have to stay
indoors all of the time,"</i> says Betty. She loves spending time in the
outdoors. If it’s not too warm or too cold she’ll go for a walk or a drive. She
says, <i>"I like to get in my car and go riding with my sister. Other times I go
driving through the <a href="http://www.blackhillsbadlands.com/" target="_blank">Black Hills</a> by myself."</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her portable oxygen concentrator has made traveling much
easier than with tanks. She just plugs it into her car's outlet, and she can
stay out as long as she'd like. Aside from car trips, Betty’s portable oxygen
concentrator also lets her fly without any hassle. Not long ago she flew to
Colorado to see her daughter and granddaughter. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Later this year she is planning a big trip with her sister.
The two of them are planning to make a six hour drive to Wyoming to visit their
brother. <i>"We always stop while we cross the <a href="http://www.bighornmountains.com/" target="_blank">Big Horn Mountains</a> and take in
the views and the natural beauty."</i> We hope to hear back from her and maybe
she'll share some pictures of those mountain views.</div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-50222520965190239262015-03-10T08:35:00.000-07:002015-03-10T08:54:14.871-07:00Pushing the Tanks AsideRichard B. of <a href="http://www.pleasantontx.org/" target="_blank">Pleasanton, TX</a> was having difficulty getting used to life with oxygen tanks. Traveling with oxygen tanks, and having to schedule deliveries was tough enough, but dealing with how to store the many tanks he needed was a daily difficulty. <i>"Before I switched to a portable oxygen concentrator I was going through at least 10 oxygen tanks a week,"</i> says Richard. It didn't take long before Richard grew tired of the inconvenience and clutter of oxygen tanks, and that's when he found <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a>.<br />
<br />
After working with Richard and his doctor, Open-Aire case managers were able to find a portable oxygen concentrator that best suited his needs. He is very happy with the features his portable concentrator provides, especially how it eliminates so many of the problems that he was forced to put up with while using oxygen tanks. <i>"I appreciate the fact that I can go 9 hours without a recharge,"</i> says Richard. That allows him the opportunity to travel outside the home, without the worry that he might run out of oxygen.<br />
<br />
Now that he has a portable oxygen concentrator Richard's life is closer to how it used to be before he was prescribed oxygen. <i>"I can't do everything I used to do, but I haven't let the failure of my lungs hold me back too much."</i> He uses it to go to his grandkids' basketball games, attend his Masonic meetings, and any other activities that send him outside the home. Best of all, the tanks are all gone and his home is free of all that clutter.
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-64618042323010382042015-01-13T07:23:00.003-08:002015-01-13T07:23:57.488-08:002015 - New Year and New Goals!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
When Bruna F. of <a href="http://www.tucsonaz.gov/" target="_blank">Tucson, AZ</a> received her portable oxygen
concentrator from Open-Aire it did not take long for it to make a difference. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The first day I had it I went out shopping,
and my daughter had to tell me to slow down,” </i>she says. It was a pretty
dramatic change from where she had been just for the past few years. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before getting a portable oxygen concentrator Bruna had
spent the previous two years struggling with oxygen tanks. They were too heavy
to drag around and limited her mobility. It made it hard for her to get out,
and became troubling for her. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I didn’t realize how much of a recluse I was
becoming. It was too hard to go anywhere. I hadn’t been to the mall in years.
Even just getting to the mailbox was difficult.” </i>She couldn’t live like
this, and when she heard about <a href="http://www.open-aire.com/oxygen" target="_blank">Open-Aire</a> portable oxygen concentrators she knew
she had found the solution.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Now that she’s getting all of the oxygen she needs, she’s
starting the New Year off right by getting more <a href="http://www.webmd.com/lung/copd/ss/slideshow-copd-exercises" target="_blank">exercise</a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I’ve
dusted off my old exercise equipment and now I’m losing weight,” </i>says Bruna.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s been using her exercise bike and
elliptical almost every day, and is off to an excellent start with no signs of
stopping. Exercise isn’t the only change for 2015. Since she’s no longer tied
down to her oxygen tanks, she’s looking into some very overdue traveling. We wish
her well with her weight loss and exercise goals, as well as any other goals
she has for 2015. </div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8216008972816853255.post-40873412333833171762014-12-30T08:38:00.000-08:002014-12-30T08:38:58.546-08:00Portable Oxygen and College Football<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt;">
Phillip W. of Maplesville, AL did
not have to use oxygen tanks for <span style="background: yellow; color: #1f497d; mso-highlight: yellow;"></span><span style="color: #1f497d;"></span>very long before he knew they were not for him.
They were too inconvenient to carry with him, and it limited his ability to run
simple errands, let alone do things like travel with his wife. So he started
doing research on other types of oxygen equipment and learned about portable
oxygen concentrators. Unfortunately his oxygen provider could only offer him
tanks. As a matter of fact, NONE of the local oxygen providers in his town could
get him one. That didn’t stop him though. Phillip kept looking for a company
that could help him, and he <span style="background: yellow; color: #1f497d; mso-highlight: yellow;"></span><span style="color: #1f497d;"></span>eventually found <a href="http://open-aire.com/">Open-Aire.com</a>. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10pt;">
He found working with Open-Aire
to be quick and easy. His case manager was <i>“fantastic in every way” </i>he
says. <i>“She was able to work with my doctor and did a great job in putting up
with all the emails I sent her asking about the progress of my order.”</i> A
short time later he had his portable oxygen concentrator and it’s already making
a world of difference for him. Running around town is now a pleasure, when just
a short time ago it was a complete hassle. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’ll be using his portable oxygen concentrator over the
holidays as well. Phillip is a big fan of the <a href="http://www.ua.edu/" target="_blank">University of Alabama</a>, and he’s
looking forward to watching the Crimson Tide in the NCAA Playoffs on New Year’s
Day. He had a bunch of friends over to watch them play in the SEC Championship
game just a few weeks ago, and his portable concentrator made it a lot easier
for him to mingle with his friends and to cheer for his team. Maybe with a
little luck, he’ll get to use it to watch them play in the NCAA Championship
game too. </div>
Open-Airehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02172820744837099402noreply@blogger.com2