BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The Bakersfield Heart Hospital announced a new treatment that will help patients with their breathing. One patient spoke during a press conference about what this means.

"Anyone who has a hard time breathing knows what I'm talking about," said Roman Weldon. "I can go places with my wife that I couldn't go before."

The Heart Hospital says the new procedure uses the zephyr valve which gives emphysema patients full breaths and allows them to do everyday tasks.

There are specific criteria for becoming a candidate for the treatment. However, it has been used in patients with heart disease and as a bridge for patients awaiting lung transplant.