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A group of Veterans in the Pulmonary Clinic at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) have found a unique way to strengthen their lungs and improve breathing: harmonica playing. Every

Thursday morning, they gather for the Harmonica for Health class, an innovative approach to managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions. The

harmonica class is an integral part of a therapeutic effort to help Veterans learn breathing techniques, strengthen accessory breathing muscles, and regain control of their respiratory

health. Playing the harmonica requires drawing air in and pushing it out—a process that mirrors respiratory exercises designed to enhance lung function. By engaging in regular harmonica

practice, Veterans can better control their breathing, decrease shortness of breath, mobilize sputum, and ultimately improve their quality of life. “Harmonica for Health is a fun and

effective way for our Veterans to focus on their breathing,” said Jazmin Martinez, MSN, RN, and Pulmonary Case Manager at the Orlando VA.  According to Martinez, they come here not only to

strengthen their lungs but also to connect with each other and reduce stress. It’s an activity that brings joy and health benefits. One of the Veterans experiencing life-changing benefits is

Mr. Steven Walden, a U.S. Army Veteran, who was once dependent on supplemental oxygen but now finds he no longer needs it, thanks to the harmonica classes. “This little instrument has

changed my life,” Walden said. “I used to need oxygen, and now I don’t. Playing the harmonica has taught me to control my breathing in ways I didn’t think possible, he said. “I’ve even lost

weight, and if I hadn’t picked up the harmonica, I’d still be using a scooter to get around.” “Mr. Walden has made incredible strides, and seeing his progress is inspiring,” Martinez

emphasizes. The timing of Harmonica for Health’s positive impact on COPD management aligns well with the Great American Smoke Out on November 21 and with COPD Awareness Month. The Great

American Smoke Out encourages people to quit smoking—a major cause of COPD. The harmonica class offers a new pathway for Veterans who have quit smoking or struggle with respiratory issues to

rebuild their lung health and improve their quality of life. “The harmonica sessions not only focus on physical health but also offer a sense of community and camaraderie,” said Martinez.

“Veterans find themselves in a supportive environment, sharing laughs and building bonds while improving their lung health.” For more information on Harmonica for Health, contact Jazmin

Martinez at 407-631-2397 or by email at [email protected].                                                                                                                  ### ABOUT THE

ORLANDO VA HEALTHCARE SYSTEM: Established in 2006, the Orlando VA Healthcare System is one of the leading healthcare systems serving more than 142,000 Veterans in the VA Sunshine Health

Care Network. offering health care services at 11 locations serving east central Florida. Recently recognized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the healthcare system

received 5 out of 5 stars in overall hospital quality. The healthcare system has also been given 5-star recognition for patient experience by Becker’s Hospital Review and was awarded the

2024 Patient Safety Program of Excellence designation from the Veterans Health Administration’s National Center for Patient Safety. To learn more about the facilities and services offered by

the OVAHCS, please visit: VA Orlando Health Care | Veterans Affairs, subscribe to receive email updates by clicking here, like us on Facebook at: Orlando VA Healthcare System | Facebook,

follow us on Instagram at: Orlando VA Healthcare System (@ovahcs) • Instagram photos and videos or on Twitter at: @OVAHCS / Twitter.