I started working at the American Lung Association in New York 3 ½ years ago. During my first month, I met and talked with many individuals who had lung disease or had it in their families.  I was shocked by the number of people I met who were affected by asthma and other lung disease.

The people I meet inspire me to do my job.  It’s the moms who have laid next to their child all night watching them breathe to make sure they don’t stop; it’s the adults who take care of their parents who have COPD and struggle to do house chores, or even walk; it’s the men and women who stay next to their spouse’s side while they are suffering from lung cancer.

I not only consider my position with the American Lung Association in New York my job, it’s a commitment to those who struggle to breathe, to help them live longer and healthier lives. We need to raise awareness of the increasing number of individuals affected by lung disease and how many deaths are related to lung disease.  The statistics are very scary, but they are real. Often times, people unaffected are not aware of the statistics.

I understand the importance of educating the community about how individuals who live with lung disease are affected, and what kinds of treatment and management options are available for them to help them breathe easier and live longer.  Too many times, I have heard, “If we only knew, we would have done things differently.”  There is a large need for educating the community about the importance of managing a lung disease, avoiding triggers, and being aware of those who are living with the disease – to be as supportive of them as possible.

I would love to see cures and better treatment options for those who struggle to breathe.  All of the families and friends that I have met through the American Lung Association would be able to rest, knowing that their loved ones can breathe easy.  In the meantime, I will continue to meet as many families as I can, and help connect those who have been affected.  It’s important for them to know and understand that we are here for them and will do everything we can with our resources to support them, educate them, and fight for air on their behalf.

For more info on the New York American Lung Association, visit their website at www.alany.org.