James Schneider's journey with sleep apnea and the machine that changed it all

For James Schneider, sleep has never come easy.

A lifelong mouth breather and self-described “snorer of epic proportions,” James has known something wasn’t right with his sleep for most of his life.  

“It was embarrassing,” he admits. “I snored so loud that I had to be cautious of where I would fall asleep, and I didn’t dare sleep in public. It’s that obnoxious.”

Years ago, James underwent a sleep study at Emplify Health by Gundersen Boscobel Hospital. The results confirmed what he already suspected: severe obstructive sleep apnea with an off-the-chart number of interruptions per hour. So, James got himself a CPAP machine, but that first experience didn’t go as planned.

“I’m claustrophobic — really claustrophobic,” James said. “The first mask covered half of my face, and I just couldn’t do it. I tried and tried, but I couldn’t make it work.”

So, he gave up — until technology caught up with his needs.

Finding rest at last

A few years ago, James heard that newer, more comfortable CPAP options were available. Encouraged by the possibility of a better fit, he returned to Emplify Health by Gundersen Boscobel for another sleep study.

The results were staggering: 83 interruptions in one hour.

“That kind of number is just…constant,” James said. “But this time, the equipment was different. The nose-fitting was smaller, less invasive and so much more tolerable.”

It made all the difference.

With his new CPAP, James has experienced what he calls a “wildly successful” transformation.  

“Some nights, I only have half an interruption an hour. I can track everything on the app on my phone — well, when the technology cooperates,” he joked.

For someone who once avoided sleeping in public due to embarrassment, the improvement has been life changing.  

“I traveled with it on a train once and made it work; I wouldn’t have dared to do that before. It’s just… wonderful,” he said.

James now sleeps comfortably, even in the hammock he prefers over a traditional bed.

“I’ve slept in a hammock for years — it cocoons you,” he shared. “And the CPAP still works with it.”

So, what is his advice for others who have struggled with sleep apnea, especially those who gave up on treatment in the past? “Try again. The technology has changed, and you don’t know what a difference it can make until you do it.”

Beyond his personal health journey, James is no stranger to Emplify Health by Gundersen Boscobel. As a former employee of the hospital, he played a key role in local fundraising efforts, helping raise over $1 million for emergency room improvements.  

“We have an incredible community here,” he said. “And we’re fortunate to have healthcare like this close to home.”

After years of restless nights, James is finally sleeping better — and living better.  

“I wish I could have done this 40 years ago,” he said. “But I’m grateful I did it now.”