Had Emphysma/COPD since 1983-84, smoker for over 40 years but quit cold turkey in 2006. Too late then. On Oxygen for sleeping initially, gradually moved to 24/7 3 lph. Took 3.5 years to get a "clean and clear" CT or CAT or Pet scan, then got referral for evaluation. Passed the evaluation and was put on waiting list; previous pulmonary doctor told me to be prepared to wait a long time. God intervened and my wait was only 3 months; TX on July 25 2009. Almost aspirated in ICU, but nurses saved me. Spent 10 days in ICU, 18 more in recovery then. Nothing but continual improvment since TX.