COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) is a progressive disabling lung condition that is characterized by shortness of breath when performing daily activities such as showering, walking to the mailbox, and meal preparation. In the more advanced stages it can rob a person of their independence. One of the primary treatments for those diagnosed with COPD is Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Although covered by Medicare and private insurance the deductibles, co-pays and or co-insurance will prevent those that would benefit from this service the ability to participate. Those without insurance or inadequate insurance are excluded as well.

According to a report published in 2010 by the American Lung Association there were 39,433 people living in Travis County diagnosed with COPD. Since COPD is widely undiagnosed by about half nationally the actual number is more likely to be greater than 60,000.

On Sunday March 3, 2013 from 12:00pm -8:00pm Giddy Ups, located at 12010 Manchaca Rd. in South Austin, will host a COPD Harmonica Blues Benefit. Tickets will cost 18 dollars per person with all proceeds going to COPD patients at Seton Family of Hospitals who cannot afford pulmonary rehabilitation therapy or other treatment that will help them manage their lung disease.
Tickets will be available on line February 3rd. Also a link will be provided if you just want to make a donation.
Tickets will be available at the door for $20 between 11:30am to 4:00pm.
There will be 8 bands with excellent local harmonica players playing for 1 hour each that day which include: Michael Milligan and the Altar Boyz, BirdLegg, The Blues Posse, Rob Roy Parnell, Jose “Sweet Tone” Ruiz and Woody Russell, Jimi Lee, Michael Rubin and the last band is Greg Izor.

Harmonica Therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment to help strengthen the respiratory muscles and is the only instrument that produces a sound by breathing in or out.

If you have any question about tickets or the Benefit, please email your questions to tommyzaustinblues@gmail.com