Tyrolean on his ordeal

Living with COPD: “Walking 200 meters was torture”

After years of pain, fears and disappointed hopes, Manfred Schneider can laugh again today. Even on the mountain.(Bild: Christof Birbaumer)

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - COPD for short - is a widespread disease in Austria. Up to 800,000 people are affected. A Tyrolean tells of his harrowing ordeal and is a wake-up call. But he also wants to give hope to other sufferers.

When you meet Manfred Schneider, it's hard to believe the dramatic years the 57-year-old from Terfens has gone through. He tells us his story because he wants to encourage others. This is important for the Tyrolean to emphasize. Courage in the fight against a serious illness and hope - but also confidence in what medicine is capable of achieving.