Asthma Canada

Asthma Canada Asthma Canada's mission is to help Canadians with asthma lead healthy lives through education, advocacy and research. https://linktr.ee/asthmacanada

Renay Michele Lambert, 63, from Ontario, Canada, is a retired dental supply professional who has faced significant healt...
12/18/2024

Renay Michele Lambert, 63, from Ontario, Canada, is a retired dental supply professional who has faced significant health challenges due to asthma and nasal polyps. These conditions often worsen each other, making management difficult.

Respiratory issues run in her family, with several relatives suffering from asthma and COPD. Growing up in a household with second-hand smoke exposure, Renay developed a sensitivity to smoke that persists today.

Though Renay showed early signs of asthma, including difficulty blowing out candles and lingering coughs, she didn’t seek medical attention until her early 40s. In 2003, after experiencing worsening symptoms, she was misdiagnosed multiple times before finally receiving an accurate diagnosis of asthma and nasal polyps. “I felt like a prisoner in my own body.”

Frustrated by conflicting medical advice, Renay turned to Asthma Canada’s Asthma and Allergy HelpLine, which helped clarify her diagnosis. “Asthma Canada gave me clarity about what I was experiencing.”

Renay took an active role in managing her health, attending educational webinars and seeking knowledgeable specialists. Biologic medications have been a “miracle drug” for her, helping to control her nasal polyps and asthma. However, she emphasizes the challenges of accessing advanced treatments due to insurance and funding issues. “The complexities of insurance and funding are always there, but Asthma Canada has been a huge help.”

Today, Renay’s quality of life has improved, and she remains proactive about her health. “Asthma Canada has been fantastic,” she says, grateful for the resources and support that have made a difference in her journey.

12/02/2024

For Melanie Cabral from Etobicoke, Ontario, managing severe asthma for her two young daughters, Hannah (9) and Gianna (4), has been a challenging journey.

Hannah’s asthma symptoms began at just nine months old, with frequent ER visits and breathing difficulties. “It was a long and scary road getting her the care she needed,” Melanie recalls, noting how her concerns were often dismissed. Melanie’s experience fighting for Hannah’s diagnosis highlighted a lack of awareness about asthma, both in the public and among healthcare professionals.

Gianna’s diagnosis came earlier, thanks to Melanie’s knowledge from managing Hannah’s condition. With vigilance and consistent medication, the family has worked hard to keep Gianna’s asthma under control.

Asthma Canada has been an vital resource for the Cabral family in managing their asthma. Melanie now collaborates with Asthma Canada on a patient advisory panel, helping to create resources and solutions for families facing similar challenges.

“There’s a lack of education about asthma, even among healthcare professionals,” says Melanie. She hopes for greater awareness to ensure children with asthma get the care they need.

This Giving Tuesday, join us in making a difference. Support Asthma Canada to help nearly 1 million children with asthma, like Hannah and Gianna, live healthier, happier lives—the way every child deserves. 💙

Caring for one child with severe asthma is challenging, but having two is even more daunting. This is the reality for Me...
11/15/2024

Caring for one child with severe asthma is challenging, but having two is even more daunting. This is the reality for Melanie and the Cabral family from Etobicoke, Ontario. Melanie’s daughters, Hannah (9) and Gianna (4), both live with severe asthma.

Hannah’s journey began at nine months old, with frequent sickness and ER visits becoming the norm. Melanie often felt her concerns were dismissed. “It was a long and scary road getting Hannah the care she needed. Many healthcare professionals gave flu or pneumonia diagnoses instead of addressing her asthma.” Each bug or cold sent Hannah back to the ER. “Her asthma was horrendous,” Melanie recalls.

Eventually, Hannah began receiving specialized care, but managing her asthma remained challenging. “Hannah, understandably, panics during her asthma attacks, and half the battle is calming her down when she can’t breathe.” Thankfully, her condition has improved with medication, though sports can still trigger flare-ups.

Gianna’s asthma story unfolded slightly easier. With Hannah already in the system, Gianna accessed care quickly when symptoms appeared at age one. Melanie’s experience managing Hannah’s asthma helped her navigate Gianna’s treatment, though it was still a stressful journey. “Staying on top of medication has been key,” Melanie says.

Melanie believes there’s a lack of awareness and understanding about asthma. “Many people don’t grasp how serious the condition is. This lack of education can be dangerous.”

The family has utilized various Asthma Canada's resources in their asthma control journey and has worked with Asthma Canada on a patient advisory panel to help develop new solutions and resources for families going through similar experiences.

Through perseverance the Cabral family has learned to manage asthma, but their experience highlights the critical need for better awareness and support for families living with this condition.

Jaqueline Murdoch, a 75-year-old retired IT manager and mother of three from Stratford, Ontario, recognizes the critical...
11/08/2024

Jaqueline Murdoch, a 75-year-old retired IT manager and mother of three from Stratford, Ontario, recognizes the critical importance of vaccination, especially for those living with chronic conditions.

After being diagnosed with asthma in 2012, Jaqueline took her health into her own hands, building a daily routine that includes exercise and nutrition.

Vaccination is central to Jaqueline’s health approach; she stays fully vaccinated, receiving all available COVID-19 doses, annual flu shots, shingles vaccines, RSV, and pneumonia vaccines.

Recently, after a severe bout of respiratory illness—either flu or RSV—she credits her recovery to her RSV and flu vaccinations. “Because I was vaccinated, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been.”

Jaqueline’s strong stance on vaccines is influenced by personal experiences. “I remember a classmate with polio, and it left a lasting impression.” Her mother’s battle with shingles also had a lasting impact. When her sister-in-law suffered from shingles and said, “The pain is so ferocious, I wouldn’t wish this on my worst enemy,” Jaqueline didn’t hesitate to line up for the vaccine. “I got the first one, and when the new one came out, I got it again with no regrets.”

Holding a bachelor’s degree in mathematics, Jaqueline is all about weighing odds. “Science never promised these vaccines would prevent illness outright, but they lower your probability of serious illness. I’m all about weighing the odds—I want to live as long and as healthy as possible!”

With her knowledge and commitment, Jaqueline encourages others to “look at the science” and stay informed on vaccines, helping her community make proactive choices for their health.

Grace Pyatt, a 25-year-old professional volleyball player and nurse from Niagara, was diagnosed with asthma at 20 after ...
10/16/2024

Grace Pyatt, a 25-year-old professional volleyball player and nurse from Niagara, was diagnosed with asthma at 20 after a severe chest infection left her struggling to breathe.

Grace recalls the challenges she faced, particularly in receiving a proper diagnosis. “Once I saw the respirologist, it was amazing, but getting there took forever. I had a year where I felt like I constantly couldn’t breathe, which resulted in fainting about seven times."

Despite telling her doctors that her issue was breathing-related, she was sent to a cardiologist and underwent unnecessary tests. “One doctor even suggested I was suffering from anxiety and needed to calm down. It’s hard to stay calm when you can’t breathe properly.”

Her situation improved dramatically once she met with a respirologist. She was prescribed an inhaler and finally diagnosed with asthma.

However, the early days of managing her condition were difficult. “I developed a fear of exercising. I hid my asthma from my coach and teammates and took my inhaler in private. I didn’t want anyone thinking I was not capable.”

Today, Grace’s asthma is well-controlled. “It took time, but I’m finally in a place where my asthma no longer negatively affects my life. I take my inhaler before training and move on. I carry my reliever inhaler in a f***y pack and keep it close when exercising.”

She emphasizes that asthma doesn’t define or limit her: “People often stereotype those with asthma as unable to keep up. I want people to know that’s not true. I’m playing on a national team, and my asthma isn’t holding me back at all.”

Grace has also become diligent in managing her triggers and uses resources from Asthma Canada's social media to stay informed, often sharing valuable tips with her own network.

Penny Grant’s asthma journey began unexpectedly in her early 50s. “I was working as the director of the Vancouver Island...
10/01/2024

Penny Grant’s asthma journey began unexpectedly in her early 50s.

“I was working as the director of the Vancouver Island Regional Library when I first developed asthma. Libraries can be dusty, but it wasn’t the dust that made me cough—it was asthma.”

After seeking treatment, a virus worsened her condition significantly. That’s when Penny turned to Asthma Canada for support.

“Talking to others with asthma made me feel supported. I think it’s so important to create a network where people can share their experiences.”

A key figure in her journey was Bill, a fellow member whose humor and advice motivated Penny to advocate for herself. “I remember him saying once that a treatment was ‘about as useful as a dead fish on his head.’”

When Penny faced delays in getting a pulmonary function test, Bill’s advice to “self-advocate” resonated. Her letters to local health officials expedited the test and reinforced her belief in self-advocacy.

Following the results, she was referred to a severe asthma specialist who prescribed a life-changing biologic treatment. “After a couple of months, I rarely coughed—they gave me my life back.”

A highlight for Penny after achieving control of her asthma, was a two-week RV trip with her grandsons, where she climbed the world’s tallest dinosaur without coughing!

Penny’s hope is for greater awareness and research on adult asthma. “People know a lot about childhood asthma, but it can be just as challenging for adults. Asthma can be treated—you don’t have to suffer.”

In celebration of Asthma Canada’s 50th Anniversary, Penny was honored with the Recognition of Advocacy award for her dedication to improving the lives of people with asthma across Canada. Thank you, Penny, and all our advocates, for your tireless support!

If you’ve taken 2 or more oral corticosteroid courses for 3 or more days in the past year, your asthma may not be contro...
09/18/2024

If you’ve taken 2 or more oral corticosteroid courses for 3 or more days in the past year, your asthma may not be controlled. Learn more www.raisethealarm.ca/en-ca/

Si vous avez pris des CSO pendant 3 jours ou plus à au moins 2 reprises dans la dernière année, il se peut que votre ast...
09/18/2024

Si vous avez pris des CSO pendant 3 jours ou plus à au moins 2 reprises dans la dernière année, il se peut que votre asthme ne soit pas maîtrisé. En savoir plus www.raisethealarm.ca/fr-ca/

Rudhro Prince is described by his family as their "angelic boy."Living with severe asthma, Rudhro was always mindful of ...
09/10/2024

Rudhro Prince is described by his family as their "angelic boy."

Living with severe asthma, Rudhro was always mindful of his limitations. At school, he knew he couldn't run for long, so instead, he volunteered to care for the kindergarten class during recess—turning a challenge into an opportunity to help others.

In 2018, Rudhro suffered a severe asthma attack. His mum, Rumi, recalls his face turning blue and him saying, "Mummy, I can't breathe, I'm dying.” After an 11-day fight for his life, he passed away on May 11, 2018, at just 8 years old.

Rudhro’s absence is deeply felt by his family and everyone who knew him. He dreamed of becoming a police officer one day to "fight the bad guys." In recognition of his dream, the Ottawa Police Board named him an Honorary Police Officer after his passing.

To honor Rudhro and celebrate his vibrant life, the Prince family are organizing the Rudhro Prince Memorial Walk for the 6th year. The Prince family is determined to create a world where no more lives are lost to asthma.

For more information on the Rudhro Prince Memorial Walk, and to sign up, please visit Asthma Canada’s website.

Toni Pellegrino’s journey with her six-year-old son, Elias, serves as a powerful reminder of the challenge’s families fa...
08/21/2024

Toni Pellegrino’s journey with her six-year-old son, Elias, serves as a powerful reminder of the challenge’s families face in securing proper care for their children. 👨🏽‍👧🏽‍👦🏽

Elias' battle with asthma began in infancy. His asthma was initially misdiagnosed on multiple occasions due to conflicting medical opinions. However, his family, convinced that something more was at play, refused to accept these diagnoses. They sought out a new pediatrician who finally put Elias on the correct management plan for his asthma. 💪

Their advocacy didn’t stop there—they pushed for Elias to see a respirologist and, more recently, an allergist. Thanks to their relentless determination, Elias now follows a comprehensive asthma plan tailored to his specific needs, resulting in significant improvements in his health. He is now a happier and healthier child.

However, managing asthma isn’t just about having the right doctors and medications—it’s also about ensuring safety in everyday environments like school. Toni encountered resistance and a lack of understanding about the seriousness of asthma within the school system.

“Initially, Elias’ rescue inhaler was kept in the principal’s office. It wasn’t until he had a frightening asthma episode that they realized just how serious this condition is. His recue inhaler needs to be with him at all times. School staff need to be more aware of how life-threatening asthma can be.”

Thanks to your ongoing support, Asthma Canada continues to provide parents and teachers right across Canada with the information and support they need to keep kids safe at school. Check out our news section for more information. 💙

Christine Moffatt's journey with asthma began subtly during her high school years in the early 2000s.She developed seaso...
07/29/2024

Christine Moffatt's journey with asthma began subtly during her high school years in the early 2000s.

She developed seasonal allergies in grade nine, and experienced alarming episodes of extreme shortness of breath. Despite consulting her doctor, her condition was downplayed, and she was reassured not to be concerned.

It wasn’t until 2021 amidst the COVID-19 pandemic when Christine contracted the virus and faced persistent shortness of breath. Finally, after advocating persistently and changing doctors, she received the asthma diagnosis she had long suspected.

"I was frustrated and scared, but ultimately disappointed. After my COVID infection, it took four appointments and an altercation with my previous family doctor to get a referral to a respirologist and access to proper testing.”

Despite Christine's many hurdles in receiving her diagnosis, she has persevered and achieved good control over her asthma. She credits resources from Asthma Canada, consultations with the Asthma Education Centre at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, support from online groups, and her own research for her current control.

Christine's journey underscores the importance of persistence and proactive self-advocacy in managing chronic conditions like asthma, effectively.

Christine's cat, Aussie, also went on his own asthma journey.

"Our cat had an unusual cough that I caught on video, and we took him to the vet. It turns out he has asthma too. Training a cat to use an inhaler is tricky, but we're both doing really well now!" 💙

For most of Adrienne Lam’s early life, asthma played a huge role in determining what she could and couldn’t do.“I have h...
07/10/2024

For most of Adrienne Lam’s early life, asthma played a huge role in determining what she could and couldn’t do.

“I have had asthma for as long as I can remember. Up until the age of 13, a cold was never just a cold. A 20-minute walk in the winter cold could mean having to pull out my rescue inhaler. The yearly school beep test was dreaded. Almost any respiratory infection would trigger an asthma exacerbation; and on many occasions, a trip to the emergency room.

I would miss out on weeks of school at a time, and thus unable to participate in many school activities and spend time with peers. I always felt as if I were different from my peers at school, because of my asthma and allergies that required constant management.

That all changed during the Covid-19 Pandemic. I began to slowly, but consistently run and eventually, I worked my way to joining the University of Toronto Run Club. I even conquered the challenge of running a 10k (and crushed my personal best) last summer, which I’m ecstatic about.

The most important lesson I learned, and what I want others to take away, is that asthma doesn’t have to stand in the way of pursuing your interests and passions. With good asthma management, asthma for most people, shouldn’t limit you from experiencing the many joys of life.

These days, I’m training for the TCS Waterfront half-marathon in October, where I plan to run as part of Team Asthma Canada to help them raise vital funds to help others affected by asthma. I would’ve never thought I’d be able to run a 10k never mind a half marathon. Because of my asthma I really didn’t think I could do it – I was wrong!

My next goal? Learn to play the saxophone.”

“Growing up with severe asthma was like living in a constant battle with my own body. Hospital stays were a regular occu...
06/21/2024

“Growing up with severe asthma was like living in a constant battle with my own body. Hospital stays were a regular occurrence, and even the simplest activities felt like daunting challenges.

I remember desperately trying to participate in sports, only to end up on the bench, wheezing and reaching for my reliever inhaler, feeling like I was letting everyone down. 😔

But everything changed in June 2020. After years of unintentionally abusing my asthma medications, I reached a breaking point. I realized I couldn't keep living in fear of my own lungs.

So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I started small, running just 500 meters at a time, taking breaks to use my inhaler when needed. 🏃

One day, I ran a full 25 kilometers—a monumental achievement considering where I'd started. With each step, I felt like I was reclaiming control over my life. For the first time, my asthma felt manageable.

I wasn't constantly afraid of triggering an attack, and I could finally enjoy physical activity without fear holding me back. 💪

Looking back, I can't help but wonder how different my life could have been if I'd had access to better support and education about managing my asthma earlier on. That's why I'm passionate about advocating for improved healthcare for people like me.

Empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and providing access to resources like Asthma Canada's HelpLine can make a real difference in people's lives.”

Josh Rheaume ran his first marathon as part of Team Asthma Canada last year, and in 2024, he'll be joining us once again at both the TCS Waterfront 5k and Marathon on the 19th and 20th of October. We'd love to have you join our team too.

In 2023 at just nine years of age, Carter’s Vigh’s life was tragically cut short by a wildfire smoke induced asthma atta...
06/12/2024

In 2023 at just nine years of age, Carter’s Vigh’s life was tragically cut short by a wildfire smoke induced asthma attack.

“Carter was incredible,” said Carter’s mom, Amber. “He was the happiest kid you’d ever meet. At school, he was the kid who always welcomed new kids and stood up for what was right. He was friends with everybody.”

“Carter loved his family. His brother Daxton was his best friend, and his sister Cadence, was his icon.”

Living with a severe form of asthma meant that Carter was no stranger to hospital visits, yet his family spared no effort in ensuring his condition was well managed.

“Everywhere Carter went, he carried his brief-kit, a lunchbox containing his medications and devices, which served as a constant reminder to everyone in our community of Carter’s condition.”

On Carter’s final day his mom checked the Air Quality Health Index before he headed to the water park with their summer camp. She recalled the reading indicated a low risk, however, they would later learn that this reading was based on air quality measurements taken nearly 100 kilometers away.

Later that evening after returning home, Carter began coughing, which as the night went on, it only worsened.

Despite his parents’ best efforts and the efforts of the hospital staff, nothing was successful in alleviating Carter’s condition.

Tragically, later that night, Carter took his final breath.

"Nothing could have prepared us for that day. Wildfire smoke triggered the asthma attack that claimed my son's life. I’m pleading with everyone affected by asthma across Canada to take every precaution to ensure your asthma is well-managed during this time of year. I cannot bear the thought of another family experiencing the heartbreak that mine did less than a year ago."

’Tis the season to pack your suitcase and hit the beach! 🏖️ But when you are taking a vacation with asthma there are a f...
06/10/2024

’Tis the season to pack your suitcase and hit the beach! 🏖️

But when you are taking a vacation with asthma there are a few important factors to consider… here are our top three:

🗺 Planning

Speak to your physician for a health assessment and to discuss what to do if you have asthma symptoms. Ensure that you have a written asthma action plan, to help guide you in the event of worsening asthma symptoms.

🛫 Transportation

It is not possible to control exposure to asthma triggers if travelling in a public transportation system such as in an airplane, a bus or train, so have your asthma well under control before travelling. And always have your reliever medication easily on hand.

🏨 Destination & Accommodations

Learn as much as possible about your destination beforehand. Will you have easy access to medical facilities? Will the weather be hot or cold? What are the seasonal allergens in the area? Is there smog?

Asthma attacks can occur anywhere at anytime but are less likely to happen if the condition is well controlled prior to going. It is always important to know where the nearest hospital is and the fastest way to get there.

https://asthma.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/asthma_travel_tips_eng.pdf

Yesterday was a great day at Asthma Canada as we convened for our Annual General Meeting, quarterly Board meeting, orien...
06/07/2024

Yesterday was a great day at Asthma Canada as we convened for our Annual General Meeting, quarterly Board meeting, orientation sessions for new Board members and we capped the evening off with a board and staff socializer.

Here are just some of the day’s highlights:
🔷 Ian Fearon, CCP CCE moved us with his heartfelt account of his late daughter Amanda's battle with asthma and struggle to get the care she needed, underlining the vital importance of our work within the asthma community.

🔷 Dr. Alan Kaplan delivered an insightful session for our new board members, shedding light on the state of asthma in Canada and the challenges that people living with asthma and their healthcare providers must navigate.

🔷 Dag Enhorning was honored for his 9 years of dedicated voluntary service as a member of the Board of Directors. Dag has kindly agreed to stay on as member of the Board Finance Committee.

🔷 The unveiling of our 2023 annual report showcased the significant achievements from last year (Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for the launch of this report).

A huge thanks to all who contributed to making this day a success.

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