EMPHYSEMA sufferers and diabetics could get a new lease of life thanks to sessions teaching them how to cope with their condition.

Bromley PCT has launched the services to provide advice to sufferers on how to manage their illness themselves, instead of letting it worsen resulting in a trip to hospital.

Janet Stewart Paver, who took part in a pilot, can not believe what a difference the new service’s rehabilitation course has made to her.

The 63-year-old has been suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for 15 years, known more commonly as emphysema.

There is no cure for the debilitating condition- which means Janet struggles to breathe and carry out simple everyday activities.

The former nightclub owner and smoker said: “Prior to going on the course I think all of us felt that we were going to the GP and we were actually being told there is no treatment to reverse your condition.

“So you are on a bit of a downer. You feel like you are a bit of a lost cause.”

But Bromley PCT has launched a new one-year scheme to try to educate people about how to cope with their condition.

Janet of Rectory Road in Beckenham said: “The things we thought we were doing right, were actually wrong.

“For example in the past I was purposefully lying on my back to sleep to open up my lungs.

“But instead, we were told we should move about- on your side, front and around so it will squeeze your lungs in and out.”

Nurses running the six week courses are also available on the end of the phone to give advice at any time.

Specialist COPD nurse Shirley Edwards, said: “Previously, patients were unsure who to contact when their condition worsened and often they would make a 999 call and be admitted into hospital.

“The support offered by our team and the ongoing monitoring of patients has already dramatically reduced hospital admissions.”

The services will be based at specific clinics throughout the borough, including at Beckenham Beacon in Croydon Road.

For more information visit bromley.nhs.uk