Two weeks ago I did Ride the Rockies and struggled with my breathing. Actually, I've been having problems breathing all season but it took being at extreme conditions like RTR for me to realize it.

The last day we were in Leadville and I had an asthma attack that landed me in the ER so I didn't finish the tour. When I saw my Dr. on the following Mon. my lung function was 75%. Normal for me is 95%. They put me on Advair 2x per day.

After a week on Advair I rode on Monday and I couldn't believe the difference. I could ride faster and climb without gasping for air. I can now take deep breaths when I get to the top of a hill. Today I did a club ride. I've ridden with this group (12-14 mph range) all season. I just blew them away. I easily rode in the 16-17 mph range. I had a 147 avg heart rate as compared to 130 two weeks ago.

For a long time I accepted "hitting a wall" at certain speeds or on climbs but I didn't realize that wall was because I couldn't get enough air. I feel 20 yrs younger.

Friday I go back to the Dr. to determine better management plan for my asthma.

Being able to breath is such a wonderful thing!