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Did you miss me, haha. Due to flare-ups of BE and Mac and suspected aspiration pneumonia I spent five days in a hospital followed by 13 days at a rehab hospital where I received physical and occupational therapy and speech therapy for swallowing issues. Still pretty weak, so they sent me home with a wheelchair which will hopefully be temporary. My apartment is not designed for wheelchair users so pretty much everything is out of reach. I will also be receiving home therapy. One day at a time remains my motto. Peace and blessings to all.

I have lived with Bronchiectasis for many years and I have written a book More Than Words.
I’ve written about my experience of living with Bronchiectasis and how I turned to yoga and art to help with my chronic lung condition.
More Than Words is full of short stories, poetry, guided meditations with simple breathing exercises to help you relax and breathe deeply into the lower parts of your lungs. It also contains my own calming photographs.
My Pen name is Dawn Pierce and would love you to check out my book and consider sharing my book to your support group?
A little more insight, you don’t need to be a yoga lover to enjoy More Than Words. I wrote the book and content in the hope it will help people who are going through tough times, whether it’s due to ill health or just struggling with pressure from work or simply life’s trials and tribulations. It’s a calm and thought provoking read.
https://amzn.eu/d/0jVkXA4


🙏🥰

Hello! Health care disparities exist throughout the world. Social determinants affect the quality of care for respiratory patients. There are well-documented health disparities in pulmonary disease related to factors such as race, socioeconomic status, and sex. Interventions have been trialed to address these disparities with varying results. Future research is needed to validate interventions to reduce disparity and to understand how to plan validated interventions to meet the community's local needs. The articles below discuss in-depth information on this topic.
Do you have an example of healthcare disparity in your area?


https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0012369223003021
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33040358/

Hello! Health care disparities exist throughout the world. Social determinants affect the quality of care for respiratory patients. There are well-documented health disparities in pulmonary disease related to factors such as race, socioeconomic status, and sex. Interventions have been trialed to address these disparities with varying results. Future research is needed to validate interventions to reduce disparity and to understand how to plan validated interventions to meet the community's local needs. The articles below discuss in-depth information on this topic. 
Do you have an example of healthcare disparity in your area?

Hello! Health care disparities exist throughout the world. Social determinants affect the quality of care for respiratory patients. There are well-documented health disparities in pulmonary disease related to factors such as race, socioeconomic status, and sex. Interventions have been trialed to address these disparities with varying results. Future research is needed to validate interventions to reduce disparity and to understand how to plan validated interventions to meet the community's local needs. The article below discusses in-depth information on this topic. Do you have an example of healthcare disparity in your area?

Hello! Health care disparities exist throughout the world. Social determinants affect the quality of care for respiratory patients. There are well-documented health disparities in pulmonary disease related to factors such as race, socioeconomic status, and sex. Interventions have been trialed to address these disparities with varying results. Future research is needed to validate interventions to reduce disparity and to understand how to plan validated interventions to local needs of the community. The article below discusses in-depth information on this topic. 
Do you have an example of healthcare disparity in your area?

Hello! Health care disparities exist throughout the world. Social determinants affect the quality of care for respiratory patients. 
There are well-documented health disparities in pulmonary disease related to factors such as race, socioeconomic status, and sex. Interventions have been trialed to address these disparities with varying results. Future research is needed to validate interventions to reduce disparity and to understand how to plan validated interventions to local needs of the community.
The article below discusses more in depth information on this topic.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0012369223003021
Do you have an example of healthcare disparity in your area?

How are you doing today? Dealing with a chronic condition can result in many emotional ups and downs. We are here to support you on your journey. Reach out if you have any questions.  We have assistance available for you in many forms. In addition to the community support you receive here on BronchiectasisandNTM360, you can call one of our Patient Ambassadors directly by phone at (833) 411-5864. Our Ambassadors are real live patients with experiences similar to yours and understand what you are going through.  You can also email us at contactus@bronchandntm.org to get more information about on a specific topic. Our Ambassadors can’t provide medical advice but may be able to assist you with additional information and resources. 

StSchUpdate on Brinsupri after one month. After being on Brinsupri for two weeks I was noticing a change in my coughing pattern. I was actually coughing more but bringing up less sputum and what was coming up was smaller wads of sputum. At this point in time I had a sinus surgery and one of the post-op meds war prednisone, 20mg once a day for five days. After the second day for taking the prednisone with the Brinsupri I was not coughing or bringing up sputum anymore and now after a full month and no Prednisone I'm feeling normal with no signs of bronchiectasis and loving life.Brinsupri can be very expensive depending on your insurance coverage so be prepared. But if you're older and on Medicare with Part D and a Medicare Advantage Plan your total med output for the year is only $2,100.00 (2026) so the Brinsupri is basically free. Please check with your Pulmonologist, Insurance company and make sure you're properly set up with Medicare. You can lead a NORMAL LIFE AGAIN.

Hello! Below is a link for a recent presentation by Dr. Anne O” Donnell on DPP-1 inhibitors, Brinsupri
Https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=WrG1s0APINs

Hello! Tis the season for vaccinations. Please consider getting vaccinated soon since it takes a few weeks to be fully effective. Below is a video from a recent Coffee Break, featuring Dr.David Mannino,  Medical Director and Co- founder of the COPD Foundation: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=Qh1QLlPlMhk

A moment that we have been waiting for:
An exciting week at the CHEST conference. New guidelines for the treatment of Bronchiectasis will be introduced by top leaders in the BNTM space, including our Medical Director, Dr. Tim Aksamit: https://www.chestphysician.org/annual-meeting/news/panel-to-introduce-new-chest-north-american-bronchiectasis-guidelines/?utm_campaign=16905765-Inside%20Look%202025&utm_content=link-share&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-43597

An exciting week at the CHEST conference. New guidelines for the treatment of Bronchiectasis will be reviewed by top leaders in the BNTM space, including our Medical Director, Dr. Tim Askamit: https://www.chestphysician.org/annual-meeting/news/panel-to-introduce-new-chest-north-american-bronchiectasis-guidelines/?utm_campaign=16905765-Inside%20Look%202025&utm_content=link-share&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-43597

🍂 Midweek Reflections 🍂

Hey friends, just checking in as we make our way through the week. I hope you’re finding little moments of calm and comfort as the days grow cooler. There’s something about this fall air — lighter, quieter, and easier to breathe — that feels like an invitation to slow down and just be. 🌤️

If you’ve been meaning to step outside for a few deep breaths or a peaceful moment on the porch, this is your sign to go for it. Sometimes those simple pauses are the best medicine.


We’re halfway through the week, and that’s something to feel good about. Take it one breath, one day, one step at a time. 🍁💛

Hello! As we continue to celebrate Respiratory Therapy Week, I thought you may enjoy viewing the podcast below:
The Power of Pulmonary Rehab Podcast https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=F25YP6yOej8
Let us give a shout out on this site to a respiratory therapist who had helped us at a pulmonary rehab facility. 

Hello! We are celebrating Respiratory Therapy Week. I want to extend gratitude to Christina Hunt, RRT, Senior Director of Education and Care Delivery, BNTM Association, Alyssa Dittner, RRT, Assistant Director of BNTM Education, the COPD Foundation Respiratory Therapist Staff, and all other Respiratory Therapists who visit this site. We are so grateful for all that you are doing for BNTM patients and this online community. 
Do you have a story about a great respiratory therapist who has assisted you along your journey? 

Hello! We are celebrating Respiratory Therapy Week. I would like to extend gratitude to Christina Hunt, RRT, Senior Director of Education and Care Delivery, BNTM Association, Alyssa Dittner, RRT, Assistant Director of BNTM Education, the COPD Foundation Respiratory Therapist Staff, and all other Respiratory Therapists who visit this site. We are so grateful for all that you are doing for BNTM patients and this online community. Do you have a story about a great respiratory therapist who has assisted you along your journey? Below is a link that reviews the history of this week and so much more. 
https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/respirator-care-week






 

Hello! We are celebrating Respiratory Therapy Week. I would like to extend gratitude to Christina Hunt, RRT, Senior Director of Education and Care Delivery, BNTM Association, Alyssa Dittner, RRT, Assistant Director of BNTM Education, the COPD Foundation Respiratory Therapist Staff, and all other Respiratory Therapists who visit this site. We are so grateful for all that you are doing for BNTM patients and this online community.  
Do you have a story to share about a great respiratory therapist who has assisted you along your journey?
Below is a link that reviews the history of this week and so much more.
https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/respiratory therapists respiratory-care-week/

Hello! We are celebrating Respiratory Therapy Week.  I would like to extend gratitude for all you do for BNTM patients, this community to Christina Hunt, RRT, Senior Director of Education and Care Delivery, BNTM Association Alyssa Dittner, RRT Assistant Director of BNTM Education , the COPD Foundation Respiratory Therapist Staff and all other Respiratory Therapist who visit this site. Do you have a story to share about a great respiratory therapist who has assisted you along your journey?
Below is a link that reviews the history of this week and so much more. 
https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/respiratory therapists respiratory-care-week/

💉 Flu Season Is Knocking — Don’t Let It In Without a Fight!

It’s that time of year again -- pumpkin spice is everywhere, temperatures are dropping, and the flu virus is out there practicing its evil laugh.
But good news… we have a shield, and it’s called the flu vaccine!

Whether you’re living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, or caring for someone who is, getting the flu shot is one of the easiest ways to help protect your lungs -- and your peace of mind.

Why It Matters:

The flu isn’t just “a bad cold” -- for people with lung conditions, it can lead to flare-ups, hospital stays, and a whole lot of stress.

Vaccines help your immune system recognize the flu and fight it off before it has a chance to unpack its suitcase and move in.

Caregivers -- you’re superheroes already. Getting vaccinated helps protect the people you love too.

Reasons to Roll Up Your Sleeve (Besides Free Lollipops):

✅ Helps prevent flare-ups and hospital visits
✅ Takes less time than finding the TV remote
✅ Way easier than trying to cough and sneeze at the same time
✅ You’ve already survived 2020. You can handle a tiny needle.

🎯 Helpful Reminders:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about getting the flu shot + RSV + pneumonia vaccines -- many can be done at the same visit.

If you’re new to all of this -- no worries! We’re here to help answer questions, share experiences, and cheer you on.

Final Thought:

Getting the flu shot isn’t just self-care -- it’s lung care, community care, and “I’d rather be cozy on the couch than in the ER” care!

Congratulations to the American College of Chest Physicians on their 90th Anniversary and the dedication of Love Your Lungs Day!
CHEST continues to raise awareness on lung health and is recognizing the dedication of those working in pulmonary health care. 

Congratulations to the American College of Chest Physicians on their 90th Anniversary and the declaration of Love Your Lungs Day in Chicago, Illinois!

Lung issues impact more than 70 million people in the US who live with asthma, COPD, or another chronic lung illness. CHEST is raising awareness for lung health and recognizing the dedication of those working in health care.

Hello! Are you up to watching a great YouTube video on feeling your best with bronchiectasis symptom management? This video features Dr. Tim Askamit, Medical Director, BNTM 360 Social, and Christina Hunt, RRT, Senior Director, Education Care Delivery, BNTM Association https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tzYewFwPRoM

Hello! Are you up to watching a great YouTube video on feeling your best with BNTM symptom management? This video features Dr Tim Askamit, Medical Director, BNTM 360 Social, and Christina Hunt, RT, Senior Director, Education Care Delivery, BNTM Association https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tzYewFwPRoM

Congratulations to the American College of Chest Physicians on their 90th Anniversary and the declaration of Love Your Lungs Day in Chicago, Illinois!

Lung issues impact more than 70 million people in the US living with asthma, COPD, or another chronic lung illness. We stand with CHEST to raise awareness for lung health and to recognize the dedication of those working in health care. 

Hello! Are you up to watching a great you tube video on feeling your best with symptom management? This video features Dr Tim Askamit, Medical Director, BNTM 360 Social and Christina Hunt? RT, Senior Director, Education Care Delivery, BNTM Association https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tzYewFwPRoM

Hello 👋,  just checking in . Dbling my to 3x's a week has worked with zofran. I get Sundays off w/ no meds. Feeling much better ! Hope all is well with everyone! Take care .....

Hi Could you direct me to the list of local support groups, specifically looking in New Mexico. Thank you. 

i am so lost.  coughed up blood(only symptom) 2 yrs ago.  CT confirmed bronchiectasis.  they told me i most likeky have MAC but they still wont confirm wirh bronchoscopy. no treatment, NO recommendations ar all! now i read all the things that can increase your bacterial load, abd things you can do to protect yourself.  i specifically asked and was told "its everywhere" not much you can do to avoid!  so as carbon filters harbor the bacterior what home air purifiers do  you use?  i have been filtering tap water with activated carbon filter.🫤
do you just recommend boiling?  does bottled water have MAC in it?  i am 72 and weigh 90lbs.  i have other questions but im so overwhelmed ill end there.  any advice appreciated

Medicare Open Enrollment Begins Today!October 15
Explore your options, and understand the plans. Check out our webinar, COPD and Medicare Made Simple: Understanding Your Benefits. 

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=1zBMrG5ieoE


*Disclaimer/Update:* Since this webinar was recorded, the Medicare Part D 2026 out-of-pocket cap has increased by $100. (At the time of recording, the cap was set at $2,000, but has been adjusted to $2,100 for 2026).

I'm a 72 year old man with Bronchiectasis and have been taking the newly approved medication Brinsupri for about 6 week now and it seems to to be working pretty good.  It is very expensive but if you already hit your $2,000.00 limit it does not cost you anything.  Talk to your Pulmonologist. 

I have just been diagnosed with Bronchiectasis and struggling with clearing lungs of mucus.  I have a flutter device and use the huff cough to help.  I cough so violently that i get bad headaches.  I just completed chemo in May for non Hodgson lymphoma in lungs and kidneys and have this lung disorder during and after treatment.  i have been lifting weights and walking alot that helps get this stuff up.  
I am glad i found this site to help provide guidance on how to live wit this awful disease.
Thanks for the opportunity. JW

Hello! Are you in the process of searching for a Medicare plan? The link below offers a booklet with information on the differences between the original Medicare plan and Medicare Advantage Plans: https://www.medicare.gov/publications/12026-understanding-medicare-advantage-plans.pdf