Traveling Tales
Some Airlines Not Helpful to Oxygen Users
Jeri Mondloch of Minnesota is a frequent traveler de- spite being on oxygen. She has tried every form of oxy- gen known to man and flown on many, many airlines. Despite her small stature, she has scrapped with airline attendants, pilots and representatives about her portable oxygen concentrator and has always won. (She uses the Eclipse with continuous flow so she may use it with her CPAP equipment at night.)
Jeri wants to warn her fellow oxygen users that Delta Airlines is not making it easy for them. She found if you want to use one of the approved POCs, you have to fill out a physician’s statement, which includes general in- formation completed by the passenger and a section com- pleted by the physician. It is then faxed to Pittsburgh Med- ical Center (a minimum 48 hours prior to departure.) Jeri says, “You pay $25 to have the above forms reviewed and then will be notified if you can fly or not! You do not get the $25 back if they flunk you! What will they think of next to make it even more difficult for oxygen pas- sengers!” Tom from California called to report Alaska Airlines has begun to charge $50 for POC screening!
If you would like to find out what airlines will allow you to fly with your POC, check with the manufactur- ers’ web site or call the company. Be sure to know the air- line’s specific regulations – we recommend printing them out and having them with you, along with your oxy- gen prescription, when you board.
LifeStyle and FreeStyle POCs from AirSep Corporation
www.airsep.com 1-800- 638-2041
Eclipse from Sequal Corporation
www.sequal.com 1-(800) 826-4610
Inogen One from Inogen
www.inogen.net 1-877-446-6436
EverGo from Respironics
evergo.respironics.com 1-800-345-6443
SeaPuffers, Ahoy!
SeaPuffers, Ahoy!So you’re ready to travel? Join the SeaPuffers for new adventures in 2008! Respiratory Therapists will be along to make sure all the oxygen and mobility equipment is where it should be. You will learn a few tips and try out new equipment along the way.
• Panama Canal Cruise
The Panama Canal is always a favorite among Sea- Puffers as they enjoy the fascination of cruising through the canal as well as relaxing and enjoy- ing the ports of the Caribbean. This trip leaves from Fort Lauderdale on February 11 and returns on February 21, on Holland America’s msVolen- dam. Just in time for Valentine’s Day!
• Mexican Rivera and Sea of Cortez Cruise
This ten-day cruise leaves from San Diego on March 16, 2008, on Holland America’s msRyn- dam to see Puerto Vallarta, Cabo San Lucas and other exciting port cities. You will enjoy the in- credible beauty of the country … but the last time the SeaPuffers were on this cruise, we had to mon- itor the tequila tasting! Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day!
• Alaskan Cruise
Fire up this Fourth of July on this seven-day cruise to Alaska from Seattle on July 4, 20For information on SeaPuffers Cruises and Travel, call Pam at 1-877-473-2726.