Asthma and allergies afflict millions with frightening attacks that often kill. Help eliminate suffering and death through education, advocacy, and community outreach.

For years asthma was "the manager" of my daughter's life. Life was like a roller coaster from September through June. Family members knew nothing about asthma and wouldn't stop smoking when we visited. Fireplaces, live Christmas trees, oak leaves, cold temperatures, burning birthday candles: All caused asthma attacks.

When Katie was four we were referred to a pediatric pulmonologist, who provided the care she so desperately needed.

Her first recommendation was to read Nancy Sander's book, A Parent's Guide to Asthma. It became my bible. I realized there was HOPE that life would become "normal."

It has for the most part. Katie is still the only person she knows with severe asthma -- but her school absences have declined and she has learned what she needs to do to manage her condition. I helped form a consortium of school athletic directors who designed an asthma awareness card for teachers. Katie, in 7th grade, was allowed to walk (instead of run) the President's Physical Fitness track test.

Katie now talks of becoming a doctor. Her pulmonologist has been a model, and AANMA has provided critical support. Thank you, Allergy & Asthma Network Mothers of Asthmatics, for all that you have done to make Katie's life better.

Jeanne Malone
Freeport, NY