Fonds paa-9610 - C.O.L.D. Respiratory Problems Club of Alberta fonds

The C.O.L.D. (Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease) Respiratory Problems Club of Alberta was incorporated June 19, 1987. Supported by the Lung Association of Alberta & NWT, and founded by a respiratory therapist, C.O.L.D. is a non-profit, Edmonton-based group that provides educational, social and emotional support to individuals with chronic lung disease. Its first public meeting was held September 16, 1987 at the A.C.T. Recreation Centre at Rundle Park in Edmonton (2909 -- 113 Ave). This inaugural meeting featured guest speaker Dr. G.F. MacDonald, who spoke about chronic lung disease. Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease is a serious respiratory illness, primarily caused by cigarette smoking. Symptoms and associated illnesses include chronic asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, and other lung problems. Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease is the 4th leading cause of death in Canada after cancers, heart attacks, and strokes. Patients frequently require oxygen therapy, which may limit their opportunities for physical activity and socialization. The C.O.L.D. Club aims to provide social connections and health information in order to mitigate these problems and promote healthy living. Yearly memberships are available for anyone with a chronic lung disease, as well as spouses and other immediate family members. C.O.L.D. provides a variety of programs and services, including hosting monthly group meetings during ten months of the year, which offer social activities and often feature guest speakers from the medical community who share their expertise. The group also produces and distributes a monthly newsletter to all members, which is a mode of sharing educational resources, event announcements, and emotional support. Many medical professionals are on the mailing list. Regular updates on research, treatment, exercise, use of medicines, and resources such as Aids to Daily Living and Alberta Health Care are of immense value to C.O.L.D. Club members. The C.O.L.D. Club hosts weekend retreats to Kananaskis Country and Peace Valley, as well as frequent barbeques. In 1992, C.O.L.D. became a designated province-wide club, authorized to open chapters in any Albertan community. The Club is administered by a Board of Directors as follows: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and a maximum of 13 Board Members. There are no paid positions, and all duties are filled by volunteers. The board meets monthly for an executive meeting.