A Rally for Respiratory Health

By: Justine Rodriguez

Photo Courtesy of:

American Lung Association

Photo Description:

Respiratory Rallies are a one-day, inspirational and educational event for adults living with advanced lung disease, their loved ones and caregivers.

Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) is pleased to host the American Lung Association Respiratory Rally free lung health event on Saturday, March 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be held in the Oak Room on the first floor of the hospital at 400 North Pepper Ave., in Colton. Attendees will learn about managing and living with chronic lung disease. “We are hosting this rally because we want to reach out to individuals who may have chronic lung disease to provide them with the education and tools they need to have a better quality of life,” said ARMC Respiratory Care Services Director, Laura Ellers. “This is an educational event for adults who are living with the disease and their loved ones and caregivers.” The Respiratory Rally will feature presentations by physicians and health care professionals on topics including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a lung disease that includes bronchitis and emphysema; nutrition for individuals with lung disease; pulmonary rehabilitation (teaching patients how to live with the disease); and more. Individuals who have chronic lung disease and are living active lives will speak about their experiences. The event also includes exhibitor information; community resources; a continental breakfast and lunch. Keynote speaker Dr. Heather Merry, a thoracic surgeon in the Lung Transplant Program at the Cedars-Sinai Women’s Guild Lung Institute, will speak about end-stage lung disease, lung transplantation, and other treatment options. “Adults with lung disease, including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis (lung tissue that is damaged and scarred), and asthma, will benefit from attending this event,” said Terry Roberts, area director for the American Lung Association in California – Inland Empire. “Attendees will have the opportunity to meet others who are living with lung disease in a relaxed and supportive environment.”