Early Valentine Treat for ‘Better ‘Breathers’

Betty Kallan of Oxnard wouldn’t think of missing the annual party hosted by the American Lung Assn. in Oxnard.

Her convivial mood Tuesday was unmarred by her reliance on an oxygen tank, tucked discreetly next to the table, that emphysema has forced her to depend on 23 hours every day.

“I’m lucky,” Kallan remarked to her companions. “I go out all the time.”

Kallan was one of several hundred members of the six Better Breather Clubs in Ventura County who attended Tuesday’s program. The luncheon featured a catered meal and singing, dancing and inspirational talks.

The event was the fifth annual Valentine’s Day Luncheon sponsored by the Ventura County chapter of the American Lung Assn. for the 1,000 county residents who belong to the Better Breather Clubs.

“For many Better Breathers, the Valentine Luncheon is their only social outing of the year,” said Steven Nagelberg, president of the association’s board of directors.

Members of the clubs suffer from chronic lung diseases such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma. Members receive medical advice and tips on coping with the illnesses at the club’s monthly meetings and by reading the club’s monthly newsletter.

Edna Ray, the association’s executive director, said lung ailments caused by tobacco use remain the country’s No. 1 preventable killer.

“More people die from tobacco-related diseases than from AIDS, accidents and drugs,” Ray said. “And anyone with a lung disease will be affected by secondhand smoke.”

Oxnard Mayor Manuel Lopez, a guest speaker, told the audience that he will ask the city’s staff March 1 to formulate a tougher anti-smoking ordinance for the city of Oxnard.

That was good news to William Reynolds, an 85-year-old Camarillo resident who developed chronic bronchitis 20 years ago after a lifetime of smoking.

“If I had quit before, I wouldn’t be here,” said Reynolds. “But with the Better Breather Club, you can learn how to take care of yourself. I recommend it.”

For information about the Better Breather Club, call the American Lung Assn. at 988-6023.