The nurse on the helpline reassured me at a critical time in my life
Bethany is one of our volunteer ambassadors. She was motivated to join us after she found out she had congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) and found the help and advice she got from our health advice and specialist nurses really helpful. Last year, after her health deteriorated, she found herself turning again to our nurses for support. Here she tells us all about it.
Two years ago, I found out I have congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM). Asthma + Lung UK have been so helpful throughout, from speaking with their specialist nurses on the Asthma + Lung UK Helpline, to finding out more about my lung condition on their website - I'm really pleased to finally be giving back.
My health took a turn for the worse
I became an Ambassador Volunteer in October 2023. As part of my role, I help to spread awareness of Asthma + Lung UK in GPs, schools, and pharmacies.
But in May 2024 my health deteriorated and I underwent surgery to have part of my lung removed. During my recovery I had to take a break from volunteering and work.
I turned to the Asthma + Lung UK helpline first
When I found out about the mass in my lung and that I needed surgery, one of the things I did is call the Asthma + Lung UK Helpline. I was so worried I remember having an anxiety attack about how terrifying it all was. I spoke with one of the nurses at Asthma + Lung UK who talked me through my condition and the surgery. She said to me that she’d never spoken to someone that regrets having the surgery.
The surgery has been completely life changing
The surgery has drastically improved my quality of life. I had a cold recently and I went into panic mode, but it was the first time in my life that it didn’t lead to any chest infections or any breathing difficulties. It has been completely life changing.
During my recovery, I had incredible support from my family, friends, and colleagues, which made all the difference. I am particularly grateful for the guidance and resources provided by Asthma + Lung UK. The nurse’s words on the helpline stuck with me at a critical time in my life. I have carried them with me ever since we spoke and the day of my surgery. Her reassurance got me through a really tough time.
I’ve seen first-hand how critical Asthma + Lung UK’s work is
In July 2024, I was able to come back to volunteering after making recovering from my surgery. As an ambassador for this organisation, I've seen first-hand the critical work they do in supporting those with lung conditions, raising awareness, and funding vital research. Thank you to everyone who has supported me. Let's continue to work together and make a positive impact.
We’d like to thank Bethany and all our incredible volunteers for giving their time to help people with lung conditions and raise awareness of Asthma + Lung UK. If you would like to volunteer with us, check out the different roles available. Whether you can spare a few hours a year or a few hours a month, we have something to suit you. And if you need support with your lung condition, please contact our friendly helpline team.
We empower people with lung conditions to make changes that can be transformative.
Please donate now to help make sure people with lung conditions can live well this year.
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Beki is a PhD student from the West Midlands. She has several health conditions including severe asthma and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). EDS is a rare inherited condition that affects connective tissue. Last May, Beki set herself a fundraising challenge to complete 180,000 steps to raise money to mark World Asthma Day and EDS Awareness Month.