At the age of 22 I nearly died from pneumonia. In the several years since then I struggle through every single winter when the air quality is poor in Northern Utah. I spend the majority of the winter months coughing and wheezing. It is often to the point where I feel as though a branding iron is stuffed down my throat every time I take a breath. While I fully intend to move away from Northern Utah as soon as possible, I am stuck here for the next few years. The air is not only unhealthy for people like me, but for everyone. In addition to feeling miserable myself, I worry about my 2-year-old daughter and any future children I might have.
Join over 700,000 people who receive the latest news about lung health, including research, lung disease, air quality, quitting tobacco, inspiring stories and more!
Join over 700,000 people who receive the latest news about lung health, including research, lung disease, air quality, quitting tobacco, inspiring stories and more!
Thank you! You will now receive email updates from the American Lung Association.