To combat her desire to isolate herself, Tucker started a support group for COPD sufferers nine years ago. The group now has 185 members, has monthly meetings and publishes a newsletter. Working has also been a godsend, she said, since it not only forces her to get out of the house every day, but gives her a reason to get out and about. She operates her clambake business with her daughter, Tracy Rolsten, and granddaughter Shelby Rolsten often helps out. COPD patients face a daily challenge to feel optimistic about their lives, said Tucker.
Depression is a big part of it.
It sneaks up on you. She faces her own mortality daily when she reads the obituary page as part of her Cape Cod support group duties. In the last nine years, the group has lost 36 members. The emotional aspect of this disease is incredible. But with support, education and a certain amount of resignation, the grief can be managed, she said.