On the 28th of November 2013, the European COPD Coalition (ECC) and the European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations (EFA) celebrated World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Day 2013 together at a public event entitled "What role for diseases and patients in shaping Horizon 2020? A COPD case study of patient involvement” offering a diverse range of discussions focusing on the implications of “Horizon 2020” on patients, healthcare professionals, academia and European citizens. The case of COPD was used to contextualise important questions concerning health research for single disease areas, the assurance of adequate standards of care through research and patient involvement. The event was structured into three different sessions and offered spirometry testing for participants throughout the day to raise awareness of COPD and the need to increase its use as a tool for early diagnosis. The event served also as a platform for the official launch of the EFA's latest book on COPD entitled Minimum Standards of Care for COPD Patients in Europe. You are very welcome to read the full report from the event.