G.F. Macdonald Centre for Lung Health

We strive to return people with chronic lung disease to the highest possible functional capacity and quality of life. This includes:

• helping patients manage their disease
• slowing the progression of the disease
• maintaining independence
• improving quality of life
• decreasing emergency visits and hospitalization days

Breathe Easy Program 

This program is designed to help people manage their chronic lung disease, improve their health and quality of life through education, exercise and support.

Education sessions teach you how to manage your disease, control your breathing and recover more quickly. Topics include medication use, when to seek medical help, energy conservation, nutrition and more.

Exercise is tailored to individual abilities and needs. Exercise includes breathing retraining, stretching, strengthening and endurance.

Support comes from staff, fellow participants, family members and friends. The C.O.L.D. Club is an Edmonton support group that participants can join.

Telehealth Programs

The Breathe Easy Program is also available in many cities and towns across the province. You can access assessment and education through Telehealth technology and a local health care professional will facilitate your exercise.

Referral and assessment

Anyone diagnosed with a chronic lung disease can be referred to Breath Easy. You will need a recent pulmonary function test.

During a pre-program consultation a lung specialist (pulmonologist) will assess you and monitor your oxygen levels, heart rate and other values while you walk.