How have you helped or supported someone with asthma?

While supporting someone with asthma, I helped address an extreme mold infestation in their home. The patient had been covering the issue with a rug, unaware that it was causing their child's asthma to worsen and increasing the need for medication.

After resolving the mold problem, both the child’s health and the mother’s well-being improved. The mother shared her relief in overcoming the shame and depression of living with mold, which had kept her from enjoying her home and family. Overall, the family's physical and mental health improved significantly.

Do you have any advice for others living with asthma or for those supporting someone with asthma?

The best advice I can offer to someone living with asthma, or supporting someone with asthma, is to stay informed about the signs and symptoms, keep medication readily available, and maintain regular doctor's appointments. As someone with asthma, you are your best advocate. By educating yourself, you become your first line of defense against exacerbations. For those supporting someone with asthma, you serve as their second line of defense by recognizing signs they may miss. With diligence in avoiding triggers and following treatment plans, asthma doesn’t have to be a burdensome condition.