Better Breathers support group launches

By Toni Garrard Clay/Special to HCN

Robert Allen is bursting with enthusiasm over the launching of the Better Breathers Club to assist and inform people with chronic lung disease or asthma.

“We’re in need of a program like this in Henderson County to help people,” said Allen, who will act as the support group facilitator. “When people with common challenges and interests get together, it helps.”

The primary goal of the Better Breathers Club, which will hold meetings at ETMC Athens, is to teach members to manage their breathing conditions and improve their quality of life. Group membership also combats common feelings of isolation among those coping with breathing issues.

“We know there are people in the community who want and need a support group like this,” said ETMC Athens Administrator Pat Wallace. “It’s an identifiable need, and we’re happy to be able to provide a place for the group to meet.”

Over 35 million people in the United States have a chronic lung disease such as COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis or lung cancer. Because these chronic conditions do not have a cure, people need to learn how best to manage them. There is no fee to join the Better Breathers Club. Members will take part in discussions, hear featured speakers, learn about resources and develop skills to help better manage day-to-day life.

Group facilitator Allen is a retired respiratory therapist with 24 years of experience. He underwent training with the American Lung Association to become the facilitator and volunteers as an ETMC Athens Auxiliary member.

Two meetings are scheduled at ETMC Athens for the Better Breathers Club. The first will be held Wednesday, April 10 at 1 p.m. The second meeting is slated for Wednesday, April 24 at 2 p.m. Both gatherings will take place in the Bush Board Room.

For more information, contact the hospital at 903-676-1102 or Allen at 903-887-8240. ETMC Athens is located at 2000 S. Palestine Street (Hwy. 19S) just off Loop 7.