September 25th, 2024

Did you know that in 1981, during an assassination attempt, a bullet punctured President Reagan's left lung? After surgery, he faced complications, including coughing up blood. Reagan credited his recovery to the excellent care from respiratory therapists. In their honor, he established Respiratory Care Week, celebrated the last week of October.

As this week approaches, I invite you to share stories about how a respiratory therapist (physiotherapist) has helped you manage bronchiectasis. Whether in-clinic or via video call, your experiences matter.

Many in our community express frustration over limited access to respiratory therapists for airway clearance. Often, U.S. health insurance doesn't cover such education, leaving nurses to instruct on airway clearance. However, if your physician is hospital-based, you might have had a better chance of meeting with a Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT).

Let's celebrate the RRTs active in bronchiectasis care and advocate for more support. As a top BE doctor says, "The three pillars of bronchiectasis management are airway clearance, airway clearance, and airway clearance!"

Email me at [email protected] to connect and share your story.

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