Grateful Patient Feature: Retired U.S. Marine Claxton Fullard Receives Respiratory Therapy with Foundation Grant
Foundation News & Updates
Retired U.S. Marine Claxton Fullard began receiving support from Saint Francis Foundation for his in-hospital respiratory therapy when his Veterans’ medical coverage reached its visit limit.
Mr. Fullard, born and raised in Bayview-Hunters Point, served six years in the military, entering the Marine Corps at age 19 and serving one deployment to Okinawa after the Vietnam War had ended.
Currently living in Japantown, not far from UCSF Health Saint Francis Hospital, Mr. Fullard visits the Hospital twice weekly to receive respiratory therapy for his COPD.
COPD, which is short for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, is an increasingly common chronic lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It’s a progressive condition, worsening over time. While there is currently no cure, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Before his diagnosis, Mr. Fullard suffered many severe episodes of shortness of breath. He was admitted to the Saint Francis ER and then to the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Lab for ongoing respiratory support. He said the support there, including from his therapists Zandra and Divya, has been “amazing.” He now has the tools he needs to manage his COPD, he said.
When doctors and nurses see patients struggling to get the care they need due to lack of resources, they can apply to the Foundation for a grant to support a particular patient. In this case, the Foundation was able to approve the grant, allowing Mr. Fullard to continue his respiratory therapy.
“[Saint Francis Hospital] gave me hope. It’s the only place I can progress and get stronger. It’s a life saver for me.”
He is dedicated to his therapy schedule since the Foundation now pays for it, he said.
Mr. Fullard has made friends in therapy and it has motivated him to see others get stronger and healthier. “They had the same condition and I see myself working through it and getting stronger like others there. This is my livelihood today and focus.”
Now that he can walk while managing his breath, his new goal is to ride a bicycle out in the fresh air.
Saint Francis Foundation issues grants to community organizations and for specific programs at UCSF Health Saint Francis Hospital. To support our work by making a donation, please click here.