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Name:  Leland G. Vogel

Location:  Coos Bay, Oregon

Age:  70

Pets:  2 cats - Toby n' Missy

Favorite Poet:  Frost, Berlin, Dickinsen, Angelo, many others.

Favorite Poem:  Too many good writers to have one favorite.

How long have you been writing poetry?: I began writing poetry in 2001 after I became ill with COPD. My COPD poetry addresses my ailment. No one had done that before (that I am aware of). People tell me that I am 'blazing trails' in that regard. We will see.

What/Who inspires you to write?: The inspiration for my COPD poetry was created by the desire to find a way to explain my life experiences with COPD as a means to help others. I had never written poetry before, but found a new 'voice' as I began to write. Encouraged by medical teams and caregivers, bolstered by awards, recognized upon being published in an international medical journal, my poetry took on a life of its own!

Favorite Quote or Motto: The Imp in me says "Grinners do it in forbidden places! The Spirit in me urges "What we are is God's gift to us. What we become is our gift to God." - Author Unknown

Writing Awards, Publications, and other Achievements:
09/2001 - My very 1st Poem was accepted for church school classes.
11/2001 - Poem published in the AARC (American Asssoc'n of Respiratory Care) magazine
11/2001 - ISP Awards (made me feel good!)
4/2003 - Voted into Living Poets Society
12/2004: Huffin’ n Puffin’: Living With COPD (Infinity Publishing) http://www.tinyurl.com/5tm5t
3-2005 Selected as reading material for the Sea Puffers Cruise series.
06/2005; Identified as Poet Laureate, NECA (National Emphysema/COPD Association.)
October, November & December 2005 - Published in all American Lung Association electronic magazines for 12 weeks.
2005 - Published new website to promote my book: www.my-oh-my.com
2006 - contributing author; Everything Respiratory magazine (www.er-mag.com) Lung Laughs
2008 - Contributing author, Breathing magazine (www.breathingmagazine.com)

Additional Poet Information: I am active in/support all things related to COPD: client/speaker in/for Better Breather Clubs of the American Lung Association, while also promoting COPD awareness in/with COPD organizations around the world.