The American Lung Association (ALA) has announced a new campaign that supports patients living with pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and their loved ones. The launch occurs in connection with Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month in September.
The ALA encourages physicians and clinicians to recommend the free program, “Learning to Live with PF,” to patients who have been diagnosed with the incurable, progressive condition.
“Pulmonary fibrosis is a life-altering diagnosis that affects not only breathing, but every aspect of a person’s life, so managing this disease can be overwhelming,” said ALA President and CEO Harold Wimmer. “Through our new ‘Learning to Live with PF’ program, we aim to provide individuals with the tools they need to better understand their disease, work with their health care providers and access the latest treatment options. Education and support are key to living well with pulmonary fibrosis, and we are proud to expand on these critical resources through this campaign.”
Through the program, patients and caregivers can access a personalized support experience that includes:
- Lung health navigators: A collaborative team of registered nurses and respiratory therapists are available online or over the phone to help people throughout their journey with PF. Lung health navigators provide a structured curriculum with support, guidance and individualized resources, such as tobacco treatment.
- Learning to Live with PF workbook: Program participants receive a comprehensive guide that covers key topics, such as disease basics, medical management, building a health care team, nutrition, physical activity and coping with the emotional impact of PF. Lung health navigators utilize the workbook during ongoing support sessions.
- Patient and caregiver network: A nationwide community is available to connect individuals with PF to educational tools, peer support and updates on emerging research and clinical trials.
“When our dad, Irv Feldman, was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis in 2006, there were few resources available to guide us through the challenges ahead. After his passing in 2013, it became our family’s mission to ensure that others facing this disease would not have to navigate it alone,” said Mitchell Feldman, president of the Feldman Family Foundation, which is supporting the initiative.
