Tim with his family attending the Marching Out ceremony of his youngest son from the army.
I had nothing to lose as this trial was my last lifeline option
Tim, Clinical Trials participant
Husband and father of three Tim, was diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, sometimes known as emphysema, in 2019, when he was 56 years old.
Tim had given up smoking about eight years earlier, when he noticed his breathing was becoming more difficult. As his symptoms progressed, Tim also had to step away from a long career as a plasterer.
“I was worried and frustrated by the diagnosis and doubted I would reach my sixtieth birthday or live to see grandchildren. It felt like my adventures with my kids was coming to an end”, explains Tim.
Things got much worse for Tim, but they did eventually get better.
In 2022, he went to the RBWH for a procedure to block the small airways and collateral channels to improve the mechanics of his breathing. However, during the procedure the extent of Tim’s diseased regions was realised and deemed beyond repair. Upon waking, Tim was told there was nothing they could do for him and was sent home.
In March 2023 Tim’s life started looking up. He received a call from Dr Bashirzadeh from the Wesley Hospital asking if he would like to participate in a trial for patients with severe emphysema. As you would expect, Tim grabbed the opportunity with both hands and over the next few months underwent two minimally invasive procedures, aimed at improving his lung function.
Since having the procedures my breathing has become easier, and I don’t feel as tired. I felt I was in the best of care. I would definitely participate in any future trials that were relevant to me
Tim
Tim is now seeing benefits; however he experienced a few setbacks throughout the trial including several lung infections and two troponin leaks from his heart.
“Since the trial, I am enjoying life, riding my motorbike with my sons. I celebrated my 60th birthday with family and friends last year and was recently proud to attend the Marching Out ceremony of my youngest son from the army.
I am now looking forward to meeting grandchildren in the future thanks to this trial and medical research
Tim
Find out more about the innovative work at our Clinical Trials Centre.