As we close out a year of many challenges, I am proud of all we have accomplished at Respiratory Health Association (RHA). Together, we have continued to reach for a future free of lung disease.
With the support of our dearest friends, supporters, and partners this year, we made some amazing progress.
Five things give me hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Our amazing Making a Difference Volunteers
They give me hope and inspiration in their dedication and support of healthy lungs and clean air for all. Whether riding CowaLUNGa to support kids who have asthma or working with people committed to quit smoking, these awardees have lived RHA’s mission and they are amazing.
RHA’s resilient program staff
When respiratory therapists paused their pulmonary rehabilitation programs for patients living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and shifted to help care for COVID-19 patients, RHA stepped up and provided much-needed patient resources. RHA’s new Project STRENGTH (Support for Transitioning Rehabilitation and Exercise Now Going to Home) offers exercise routines and breathing tips COPD patients can use at home.
One of RHA’s Next Generation Advocates, Mia Fritsch-Anderson
Mia, a high schooler who lives with asthma, made more than 3,500 masks over the last nine months. Mia donates masks to people in need and sells some with all the proceeds going to charities doing important work during the pandemic.
Our local research community
These scientists have worked tirelessly over the last year to find treatments and new vaccines for COVID-19. The collaboration across the industry has saved countless lives, and RHA is excited to help promote the vaccine in the new year.
Our environmental policy staff and partners
Amidst the pandemic, they have continued to fight for equitable clean air policies and to reduce climate change. The air we breathe has a direct effect on our lungs, and these advocates are committed to protecting the air to ensure we can all breathe better.
These people, and their tremendous work, give me hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Please join us and make a gift today to help create a tomorrow where everyone breathes easier.
Thank you for being a part of Respiratory Health Association’s community.
Have a happy new year,
Joel J. Africk
President and Chief Executive Officer