Asthma affects more than 230,000 people across Western Australia, and each year, over 6,500 individuals are hospitalised due to the condition—many of them young children.
For this year’s World Asthma Day on Tuesday May 6, Respiratory Care WA is encouraging all Western Australians to pause and “Take a Deep Breath”—in support of those who struggle to do so every day.
One of those individuals is Samuel Beer who was struggling to breathe particularly when out playing sport with his friends. As time went by, his ability to breathe became more difficult and he was experiencing serious asthma flare-ups, requiring him to take emergency steroid treatment and Ventolin regularly.
Although his condition appeared to be asthma, Samuel’s family were struggling to access specialist testing for an accurate diagnosis.
The family’s GP referred him to Respiratory Care WA’s Children Respiratory Hub for Lung Function Testing where tests showed he had significant inflammation in his lungs. “We went from feeling lost within the system, to feeling heard and supported. Knowing that there were experts that we could phone or email, immediately made a difference,” says Samuel’s mum Kelly Beer.
“We left that appointment not just with answers—but with a plan and support.” Today, Samuel has a clear, up-to-date Asthma Action Plan. His school knows exactly what to do in the event of a flare-up, and he’s on the right medication—including a preventer that helps keep his asthma under control and allows him to do all the things he loves. Last year, Samuel completed a triathlon at school and competed in middle-distance events at the interschool athletics carnival, activities that would have been challenging 12 months earlier.“Samuel is an active, happy kid who loves his sport and his asthma doesn’t get in the way anymore” says Mrs Beer.
Anne Hallam, CEO of Respiratory Care WA, says asthma related hospitalisations remains high and approximately 80% of these are preventable. “One in nine Western Australians are diagnosed with asthma. Around 80% of asthma-related hospitalisations are preventable with the right diagnosis, management and care,” says Ms Hallam.
“At Respiratory Care WA, we are the only dedicated charity in WA providing free, personalised services to those affected by asthma. Our services — including diagnosis, education, and lung function testing — equip people with the tools they need to manage their condition and live healthier, fuller lives. Samuel’s story is a wonderful testament to the impact of our work, and it’s fantastic to see the difference we’re making.”
“For World Asthma Day, we’re asking all Western Australians to step into the shoes of someone with asthma. Take a Deep Breath—and make it matter as something so simple for most can be a daily struggle for many” says Ms Hallam.
On Tuesday May 6, the Respiratory Care WA team will be out and about at Yagan Square, Murray Street Mall, and Karrinyup Shopping Centre to raise awareness of asthma.
At each of these locations, there will be interactive pause points where you can Take a Deep Breath and donate to help Western Australians living with asthma access free diagnosis, education, and ongoing support.
To find out more about World Asthma Day and how you can get involved visit respiratorycarewa.org.au
