For years, Ray Arbogast, 65, of Elkins, struggled to breathe. Once a hands-on guy who took pride in his independence and helping others in any way he could, Arbogast’s life narrowed into a daily battle against air hunger. What began with nighttime oxygen in 2014 gradually escalated to a full-time dependency by 2020. Even simple tasks like taking a warm shower became a risk.

“I used to turn the water down and keep the curtain open so it wouldn’t steam up the bathroom,” he recalled. “Too hot, and I couldn’t breathe. Too cold, and it wasn’t any better.”

Arbogast’s respiratory condition became so severe, he was initially told he might need a lung transplant.

“I didn’t want any part of that,” Arbogast said.

That’s when he was introduced to Rachel Leonard, M.D.

Dr. Leonard, a pulmonary specialist at WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, offered him another option: the Zephyr® Valve procedure, a minimally invasive treatment designed to help patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or emphysema breathe more easily without major surgery.

Thanks to Leonard’s expertise and commitment, Ruby Memorial’s Pulmonary Critical Care Program has been recognized by PulmonX, the device’s manufacturer, as a Premier Practice. This designation notes exceptional treatment of patients with severe COPD and emphysema using the Zephyr Valve and places Ruby among the top centers in the nation for this treatment, highlighting the high level of care provided to patients undergoing this advanced procedure.

“Zephyr valves can impact the lives of our patients with severe emphysema and breathlessness,” Leonard said. “After evaluating Ray, we determined that he was a good candidate for the procedure and was very motivated to get better.”

Arbogast was already familiar with the endobronchial valve treatment and its potential to improve lung function in patients like himself. When presented with this option, he was immediately on board.

In late 2023, Leonard placed Zephyr valves in Arbogast’s right lung. The results were nearly immediate.

“I felt better as soon as I woke up. It worked instantly,” Arbogast said. “Before, my breathing was so bad, even with oxygen on I couldn’t make it 20 feet without having to sit down.”

After a short hospital stay for observation, Arbogast was discharged, walking out of the hospital on his own.

“As soon as I came home, I was walking all over the place,” Arbogast said. “I was out just enjoying myself.”

Arbogast’s left lung was treated in January 2024, but only after addressing an air pocket that had to heal first.

“I weed-whacked my girlfriend’s yard the other day,” he said proudly. “I could never have done that before the valves.”

The change in Arbogast’s quality of life has been dramatic. The procedure allowed him to regain his independence and return to doing the things he loves. While he still occasionally needs to pause and catch his breath, he says it’s nothing compared to how he used to live.

“Ray is now able to walk around and stay active without needing supplemental oxygen as he did prior to the procedure,” Leonard said. “There is nothing more inspiring than helping someone breathe better, to breathe easier.”

Arbogast’s gratitude is clear. He praises Leonard’s care, not only for her medical expertise but for her accessibility and compassion.

“If I have a problem, I call her. She’ll help me over the phone if she can,” he said. “She’s been really good to me. I tell anyone with lung problems to talk to her.”

The Zephyr Valve procedure may have given Arbogast a new lease on life, but it’s his determination — and the support of a skilled medical team — that carried him back into it.

“It made a big difference in my life,” Arbogast said. “I can do things I haven’t been able to do in a long time.”

Those interested in getting more information about the Zephyr Valve procedure, including scheduling an appointment with Leonard, should call Amanda Haviland, WVU Medicine endobronchial valve coordinator, at 304-285-0325.  

Editor's Note: Top photo shows the Zephyr Valve, while Dr. Rachel Leonard is shown below.