It may sound like a literary group, but the Great Gaspers Society is far from it. It’s a group that started about 14 years ago as members of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, but on a recent day they were gathered at my home in Waterford for a walk and brunch.

Each spring the hospital would hold the Spring Stride race. We, at the exercise program, would walk during the event. The group is made up of very determined individuals who live with a chronic lung condition but also have the desire to live life.

The Pulmonary Rehab program started in 2002, and the following spring I asked the members of the maintenance exercise classes if they wanted to be a part of the event. We have had a few different names throughout the years: Pulmonary Pals, Heavy Breathers, but The Great Gasper Society is our chosen name now.

Then came the glitch.

The hospital decided that it couldn’t support the event anymore. Those who had been faithful attendees were disappointed.

We have had three walk/ brunches at my home since the hospital decision. My home is on a cul de sac and the perfect road to walk down.

But the real reason I am writing today is to tell you about my heroes. Yes, the members of the Great Gaspers Society are the real heroes. Every day they wake up, fighting difficult breathing, doing activities while still feeling short of breath, but they persevere.

They are determined to live life to the fullest; they don’t have time to stew about what is but have decided to do what they can. They have given me not only professional satisfaction but personal joy. They have taught me so much about “keeping going,” determination and looking for ways to accomplish goals.

I truly have such high admiration for this group that chooses to live and not give up. Many of them use oxygen continuously, while some have had lung transplants, and some are waiting. Over the years those I have met through this rehabilitation program have succumbed to their disease, but not before putting an everlasting mark in my heart. For those who continue to fight the fight, I thank you from my soul, the bottom of my heart, the depths of the seas for being so strong and being a part of my life. You are the HEROES!

If you suffer from chronic breathing problems, talk to your doctor, attend a Pulmonary Rehab and start living again.

This column was adapted from a letter by respiratory therapist Vicki Frausini-Moran of Lawrence + Memorial Hospital.

Editor's Note: The Times encourages emails about acts of kindness in the community. To submit photos and stories, email Lee Howard at l.howard@theday.com.