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360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon ✈ Safe travels to our lung health advocates heading to Washington, D.C.!

This week, some wonderful members of our community are making their way to Washington, D.C. for IMPACT Lung Health 2026 and Hill Day. They’ll be meeting with elected officials and sharing something incredibly powerful—their real stories of living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, and other lung conditions.

That kind of advocacy matters more than people realize. When lawmakers hear directly from patients and caregivers, it puts a real face and voice to the challenges our community experiences every day—things like access to oxygen, pulmonary rehab, better treatments, and continued research that can change lives.

IMPACT Lung Health brings together advocates from across the country who are willing to step forward and speak up for all of us living with COPD, bronchiectasis, NTM, and other lung diseases. It takes courage, heart, and a lot of dedication to do this work, and we’re incredibly grateful.

To everyone making the trip this week—thank you for raising your voices for the lung health community. Wishing you smooth travels, meaningful conversations on the Hill, and maybe even a few good laughs along the way with our terrific crew.

We’ll be cheering you on from back home. 💙

And when you get back, we’d love to hear how it went!

If you’d like to learn more about IMPACT Lung Health 2026, you can check it out here:
https://www.copdfoundation.org/Take-Action/Get-Involved/IMPACT-Lung-Health.aspx

IMPACT Lung Health | COPD Foundation

The IMPACT COPD event, hosted by the COPD Foundation will help you improve your advocacy, storytelling and relationship-building skills while preparing you for a day of virtual meetings with members of Congress and their staff.

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Health Equity Matters for all BNTM patients.  Everyone deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life, get quality healthcare — no matter their zip code, income, race, education, or background. Health equity means removing barriers, addressing disparities, and ensuring access to quality care for all.  Fairness in health isn’t a privilege — it’s a right.  Have you experienced unfairness in healthcare practices in your community?

4 hours ago

Kalli Mago

Kalli MagoDuring this month’s Coffee Break, we talked about exacerbations—a sudden worsening of symptoms in bronchiectasis or NTM lung disease. If you’re curious to learn more on the subject, check out this previous episode of the Bronchiectasis & NTM Association Podcast: https://copdf.co/exacerbations-podcast. 

In this episode, Dr. Tim Aksamit, Medical Director of the Bronchiectasis & NTM Association, answers the top five questions about exacerbations submitted by the 360social community. Listen to learn how to recognize an exacerbation, track your symptoms, understand the role of the environment, and more.

4 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Today is Impact Lung Health Day. Our BNTM team of advocates are meeting with our representatives in DC today. It is a long day of continuous meetings to increase awareness on BNTM  and to educate our representatives on how BNTM impacts our lives. Our overall  “ ask” is to secure more funding for research on BNTM. We are aiming for better treatments, coverage for pulmonary rehab and more.  
The greater the number of patients, the greater the impact will be. Let us know if you would be interested in joining the group for the annual event in March of 2027. 

5 hours ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question NTM and macrolide resistance

Barnco, Hello! I am sorry to read about your reoccurrence after an extended period of time. Reoccurrence is very common in the NTM community. Do not believe everything that you read online. Do you have access to a top doctor, one of the BNTM Care Center …
360Coach Brandon also answered the question 360Coach Brandon also answered the question

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Do you feel like speaking Irish/ Gaelic for the day? ☘️💚 Below are commonly used words/ phrases: https://happyirishwanderers.com/best-irish-phrases-you-need-to-know/
Let us know if you have a favorite Irish ☘️ phrase. 

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Top of the morning to you! Happy St. Patrick’s Day to our BNTM Community! 🍀Did you know that St. Patrick’s Day began as a celebration of hope and resilience? St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is remembered for bringing faith, perseverance, and new beginnings to the Irish people during difficult times. Over the years, the day has grown into a celebration of strength, community, a little bit of luck and more.💚Living with bronchiectasis and NTM takes patience, and determination every single day. But together, we create something powerful — a community where people support each other, share knowledge, and lift one another up.So today, I am sending a little Irish luck your way:
☘️ Luck for clearer lungs
☘️ Luck for healing and hope
☘️ Luck for brighter tomorrows
Let’s celebrate the strength and spirit of every person in this group. You are never walking this path alone. May your day be filled with hope, encouragement, and a touch of Irish luck. 🍀

1 day ago

barnco24

barnco24asked the question: NTM and macrolide resistance

Hi, Recently found out I have MAC again (successfully treated m.avium species 10 years ago) but now have intracellular species and seems to be macrolide resistant. I have been looking at some very negative outcomes online for this scenario and wondering …

1 day ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Is it safe to use to inhale doterra breathe in a cup of boiled water?

Hello! I am very sensitive to chemicals and would not feel safe inhaling such chemicals. If you do decide to do so, please boil the water that you are using for at least 10 minutes to make sure the water has been cleaned of possible mycobacteria.
360Coach Brandon also answered the question 360Coach Brandon also answered the question

2 days ago

Franny

Frannyasked the question: Is it safe to use to inhale doterra breathe in a cup of boiled water?

With BE is it safe to inhale doterra essential oil breathe in a cup of boiled water?

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! Saint Patrick’s Day is around the corner. Below is a list of 50 Irish dishes if you are feeling up to cooking. Let us know if you have a favorite Irish dish to share with the community: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/st-patricks-day-party-recipes/

2 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123

Hello! We have been dealing with major fluctuations in weather throughout many parts of the USA. Weather changes do have an impact on many individuals with respiratory conditions. My energy levels vary with some weather changes. Do weather changes impact your energy level? Below is a blog article on this subject: https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/BronchandNTM360social/Community-Discussions/Blog/Article/52/Energy-Management-The-Key-to-Living-with-NTMBronchiectasis

4 days ago

  • NewestOldest
  • das23Very hot and humid-90 degrees plus- or very cold and dry-under 30 degrees ----not so good for me. I can get some shortness of breath. Just have to go slow.  Everything in between is pretty OK for me✌4 days ago
  • Ksmiles123The high humidity certainly impacts my energy levels. The cold doesn’t bother me as much as long as I am not outdoor for too long . I also have asthma and I get bronchospasms at times in the extreme cold weather. We must identify our triggers and listen to our bodies needs. 4 days ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Do you have any specific questions about pulmonary rehabilitation? Below is a blog article on commonly asked questions on pulmonary rehabilitation. https://www.copdfoundation.org/COPD360social/Community/Questions-and-Answers/Check-In-Commonly-Asked-Questions-About-Pulmonary-Rehab-1.aspx

5 days ago

Suepink1

Suepink1asked the question: Can you see me?

Anyone know if when we're watching or listening to a webinar, can the host see us? Only I have always assumed not and taken my phone with me to all sorts of places 😬

5 days ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! What are some benefits of pulmonary rehab?
-Increased energy
-Decreased breathlessness
-Improved well-being
-&  more.  Pulmonary rehabilitation—a powerful, often underused therapy that can benefit people with chronic lung diseases. 

6 days ago

ChristinaH

ChristinaHTogether we could create a brighter future for people living with bronchiectasis

We’re looking for adults to join The AIRTIVITY® Study to see if an investigational medicine - designed to target the harmful inflammation that contributes to bronchiectasis – can help improve the lives of people living with the condition. Join the movement – to find out how to take part, please contact the study team, visit theairtivitystudy.com


https://airtivity.researchstudytrial.com/?cookie_consent=yes&utm_source=patient_advocacy_group&utm_medium=Bronch_NTM_newsletter&utm_campaign=patient_recruitment&r=16

6 days ago

Alyssa Dittner

Alyssa Dittneranswered the question HRT

This is a great conversation. I think we will be hearing more about hormone therapy in the future. Good for you for doing your research and making your own informed decision. I listen to a lot of podcasts so I can do the same.
Ksmiles123KateB2025 also answered the question Ksmiles123and 1 other also answered the question

1 week ago

Lubna

LubnaHi! Good day everyone. 
I am attaching an article. Can anyone clarify it for me that manuka honey is inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas auriginosa? Does this article mean this? https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4023514/

Manuka honey treatment of biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa results in the emergence of isolates with increased honey resistance

Medical grade manuka honeys are well known to be efficacious against Pseudomonas aeruginosa being bactericidal and inhibiting the development of biofilms; moreover manuka honey effectively kills P. aeruginosa embedded within an established biofilm. ...

1 week ago

  • Ksmiles123
    Lubna,Hello! It would be wonderful if Manuka Honey could heal us.Isolates recovered from biofilm showed sustained, increased resistance to manuka honey treatment when cultured as a biofilm over time.  It reads that honey can assist other antimicrobials but can become resistant , as many antibiotics can become resistant as well. More research needs to be conducted on natural products , such as honey that can assist us in fighting these infections. Presently, there are no guidelines for supplemental treatment. 1 week ago
Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Not accepted into Bronchiectasis Clinic

Kath, What reason did they say that you were not accepted? You have the diagnosis. I would call and speak with the office manager to inquire about the situation. Please keep us posted.

1 week ago

Kalli Mago

Kalli MagoMarch 9-13 is Pulmonary Rehab Week! Pulmonary rehabilitation is a powerful, often underused therapy that can benefit people with chronic lung conditions. 

In 36 sessions taking place over 12-18 weeks, pulmonary rehab programs offer support, education, exercise, and more. Benefits include increased energy, decreased breathlessness, and improved well-being overall. 

Is pulmonary rehab right for you? This program particularly benefits individuals whose symptoms include shortness of breath, who feel their prescribed medication isn’t helping enough, and who are limited in their daily activities as a result. 

Want to learn more? Check out “The Power of Pulmonary Rehab,” a special two-part podcast series from the Bronchiectasis and NTM Association and the COPD Foundation. 
Episode 1: copdf.co/PRpodcast1 
Episode 2: copdf.co/PRpodcast2

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Will you be able to join us for the monthly BNTM Coffee Break tomorrow at 2:30pm, EST? The topic is exacerbations and DDP1 injuries, ( Brinsupri.). Below is the link to review content on exacerbations. this Please scroll down below , a few segments if you need to register. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Exacerbations

Exacerbations | Bronchiectasis and NTM Association

People with bronchiectasis and NTM lung disease sometimes struggle with staying well. Inflammation coupled with mucus pooling in the lungs becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. If you are unable to clear the mucus from your airway, you may have a greater chance of having an exacerbation (x-saa …

1 week ago

Emex56

Emex56

Thank you everyone. Happy to be here. 

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Feeling overwhelmed with new diagnosis

Lyn, Hello! Yes, it can be overwhelming dealing with this new diagnosis, to say the least. I am glad that you have reviewed materials and have sought out assistance with airway clearance. In addition to the community support you receive here on …

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Brinsupri Results

Carol, Hello! Welcome to the community.It takes six weeks or longer for most people to experience results. I have not taken it. I am glad you are not facing any side effects at this point in time. It is good to be mindful of potential side effects- and …
Countryviolet also answered the question Countryviolet also answered the question

1 week ago

Lyn175

Lyn175asked the question: Feeling overwhelmed with new diagnosis

I have recently been diagnosed with mild bronchiectasis. I am reading what i can online about it, but there is just so much to take in.. When i'm well i don't have much of a cough, and then when i do cough its very dry, and difficult to bring anything up …

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123Hello! Are you ready to listen to a great podcast on the benefits, Power of Pulmonary Rehab? https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ugUGi5cf4ao

1 week ago

Ksmiles123

Ksmiles123answered the question Coughing while traveling

Information on exacerbations. I hope that you can get in to see your Pulmonologist before June. We are here to assist you on your journey. https://www.bronchiectasisandntminitiative.org/Learn-More/I-am-a-Patient-or-Caregiver/Exacerbations

1 week ago

360Coach Brandon

360Coach Brandon

🌸 March is Women’s History Month 🌸

This month we celebrate the incredible women who have shaped our world--through science, caregiving, advocacy, and everyday resilience. Their strength has opened doors, advanced medicine, and inspired generations.

In the lung health community, women play a powerful role. Many are patients navigating COPD, bronchiectasis, and other lung conditions with determination and courage. Many are caregivers supporting loved ones through difficult days. Others are researchers, respiratory therapists, nurses, doctors, and advocates working to improve treatments and quality of life.

Women have helped move lung health forward in meaningful ways--raising awareness, supporting research, and building communities where no one has to face a diagnosis alone.

💙 This month, we’d love to hear from you:

• Is there a woman who has inspired you on your health journey?
• Maybe a caregiver, doctor, friend, family member, or fellow community member?
• Or perhaps you’re celebrating your own strength in living with lung disease.

Take a moment to recognize the women who make a difference every day. Their stories matter, and sharing them can inspire someone else who may need a little encouragement today.

💬 Feel free to drop a comment and celebrate the amazing women in your life!

1 week ago

  • NewestOldestClick to View All Comments5 comment(s)
  • das23I'll echo Brandon---Thank you Katie...You have been a big help to me and everyone here. You are the Bus Driver here----Please keep driving!!!!😀✌👍1 week ago
  • Ksmiles123Das23, Thank you very much for your kind and positive words. I will continue to drive the bus, lol. I could tell you stories about riding the bus in the future. We used to call ambulances , “ the bus” when I was working in nyc as a young nurse. Thank you for being a regular participant/ member on this site. 1 week ago
  • das23👍1 week ago
Kath

Kathasked the question: Coughing while traveling

Hello, I was recently diagnosed with bronchiectasis and potentially NTM (awaiting sputum sample results). We currently have a trip planned for out of the country (Spain and Greece) for mid-May. Right now I am coughing a great deal, despite religiously …

1 week ago

Medical Advice

It is not our intention to serve as a substitute for medical advice and any content posted should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. While we encourage individuals to share their personal experiences with bronchiectasis and NTM, please consult a physician before making changes to your own disease management plan.

 
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