Resources for Families with Children Affected by Respiratory Conditions and Diseases

There is a vast amount of information and resources available for families with children affected by pulmonary conditions. Many programs offer educational materials and support, as well as information on prevention, diagnosis, treatment and management of conditions such as asthma and cystic fibrosis.

American Asthma Foundation

The American Asthma Foundation (AAF) is the only national organization in the U.S. dedicated solely to eradicating asthma, a chronic condition affecting 23 million Americans. AAF’s mission is to improve treatment, prevent, and find a cure for the disease. In order to achieve these goals, the AAF fosters highly innovative, leading-edge research through an international grants program designed to recruit outstanding investigators not involved in asthma research.

American Lung Association

Now in its second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through research, education and advocacy.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is the world’s leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis. The foundation funds more CF research than any other organization, and nearly every CF drug available today was made possible because of the foundation’s support. Based in Bethesda, Md., the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation also supports and accredits a national care center network that has been recognized by the National Institutes of Health as a model of care for a chronic disease. The foundation is a donor-supported nonprofit organization.

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Foundation

The Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Foundation (PCDF) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) patient advocacy foundation for individuals with inherited ciliary disorders and their caregivers.

Fresh Air Camp

Members of the UH Rainbow pulmonary and respiratory care team participate in the annual Fresh Air Camp – a special medically-supervised camp for children with chronic breathing conditions. The camp was established in 2000 by healthcare professionals from Cleveland and Akron area children’s hospitals. The one-week overnight camp experience for children between 5 and 18 years currently takes place at Hiram House Camp in Chagrin Falls. Activities include arts and crafts, swimming, horseback riding, games, camp songs, campfires, nature hikes, fishing dancing, talent show, awards and lots of fun. For information, visit freshaircamp.org.