Better Breathers Traveler Offers Solutions to Travel Difficulties
(SAN DIEGO) - The American Lung Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties is unveiling a travel guide tailored for people with chronic breathing problems. The Better Breathers Traveler is a how-to-cope book for local or overseas travel for anyone with conditions such as asthma, allergies, or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). "The traveler may have to deal with shortness of breath and fatigue, may need supplemental oxygen only while onboard a high-flying aircraft, or may need oxygen all the time, but in any case this guide will be a vitalizing resource," said author Kathleen Sullivan Saling, Manager of Information and Referral Services at the Association.
The guide has been reviewed by respiratory health specialists and by individuals with lung disease. It has been approved by the national American Lung Association for distribution throughout the U.S. and is available by calling 619-297-3901.
"Better Breather" is the term used to describe the Association's education and support groups for adults with chronic lung disease. These Better Breathers Clubs (there are six in San Diego County) are a prime market for the Traveler. But Sullivan wants everyone to know about the guide.
"People with chronic lung ailments often get discouraged. They can benefit tremendously from traveling to see new sights or visit loved ones, but they encounter anxiety and other barriers when they contemplate making a trip. This guide can make the difference between sustaining a cycle of depression and helplessness or exerting control over the situation," Sullivan said.
The Better Breathers Traveler offers checklists and tips for readers as well as a long referral list of worldwide sources of travel and medical assistance. Sullivan considers the tips on avoiding stress and fatigue to be especially useful to the COPD audience, which is mostly made up of seniors.
The American Lung Association published a similar guide in 1995. Sullivan said the 2000 edition is 'lightyears ahead" of the previous edition. "We have stronger illustrations, web-based resource lists, and information on new equipment and new travel options," she said.
The American Lung Association of San Diego and Imperial Counties is the community leader in lung disease prevention, research, and education. Among its programs are the annual SCAMP Camp, Open Airways for Schools, and other efforts to assist children with asthma; partnerships with county health departments and other agencies to combat tuberculosis; Better Breathers Clubs; advocacy and leadership in creating a tobacco-free community; support for lung research; and ongoing education of health care providers and the public about lung health.
