CINCINNATI — A 75-year-old Florence woman told us she thought her severe COPD was a life sentence. Until, that is, she discovered a breakthrough treatment that has transformed her daily life.

Mary Kay Clay had suffered from severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) for years, relying on walkers and oxygen tanks to get through each day.

After smoking for 50 years, she believed her breathing difficulties were simply the inevitable consequence of her past choices.

"I just didn't think anything could be done," Clay said. "I thought well, I smoked for 50 years, that's the consequence of that, I only quit for 10 years."

Clay said her condition had severely limited her mobility and independence. Simple daily activities, like cleaning her home, left her struggling to catch her breath

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