'We don't let asthma define us' say dad and two children with the condition
!['We don't let asthma define us' say dad and two children with the condition 'We don't let asthma define us' say dad and two children with the condition](/cms_media/module_img/7540/3770467_6_articlesmall_Michael_20McDonagh_20suffers_20with_20Asthma_201306.jpg)
Mike McDonagh with his children Michael Junior and Clodagh. Picture: Ray Ryan
![Mike McDonagh with his wife Stephanie near their home in Athenry Mike McDonagh with his wife Stephanie near their home in Athenry](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7540/3770461_6_articleinline_Michael_20McDonagh_20suffers_20with_20Asthma_201299.jpg)
![The affordability of asthma medication has become a bigger issue. The affordability of asthma medication has become a bigger issue.](https://www.irishexaminer.com/cms_media/module_img/7540/3770464_6_articleinline_2.66574873.jpg.jpg)
Identify what triggers your child’s asthma — whether viral infections, exposure to irritants or even exercise. “This is by no means a call for young people to stop exercising. If their asthma is well controlled, they’ll be able to enjoy sport. I say to my patients: Having asthma doesn’t mean having less fun.”
needs a lot of rescue inhalers. “There should be routine follow-up with a healthcare professional every three to six months to check the inhaler, the inhaler technique, and to update the asthma action plan.”
Take a Breath challenge invites people to hike (or ramble) to raise much-needed funds towards the Asthma Society’s mission: To stop asthma deaths in Ireland.
Visit asthma.ie or contact phaedra.vlahos@asthmasociety.ie
The Asthma Society’s webinar, ‘Back 2 School for Teachers and SNAs’, this Thursday, September 28 (7-8pm) via Zoom (Registration link: exa.mn/asthma-webinar) will equip teachers/SNAs with tools to support pupils with asthma throughout school year — in particular through challenging colder months ahead. Worries teachers have around administering medication, responding to asthma attack/asthma emergency, will also be addressed.
If worried about asthma/COPD, speak to asthma/COPD nurse specialist — free phone consultation 1850 445464 (Asthma)/1800 832146 (COPD) or text query to Whatsapp nurse messaging service: 086 0590132.