Residents in Macclesfield living with lung conditions including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) now have access to a new support group, thanks to the efforts of local Respiratory Nurse Specialist, Jane Kent.

The Breathe Easy Support Group, supported by Asthma + Lung UK, launched in July and is already making a positive impact by offering much-needed education, support, and a sense of community for people who find it harder to breathe. Run entirely by volunteers, the group meets on the first Thursday of every month at Macclesfield Leisure Centre.

The Breathe Easy Support Group aims to provide both practical and emotional support through guest speakers and activities such as gentle breathwork and mindfulness sessions. Upcoming sessions are free and will cover topics from managing medications and diet to breathing exercises. The group invites experts from various fields, such as dieticians and pharmacists to offer a broad range of support.

Jane Kent, who has been part of Macclesfield's Integrated Respiratory Team since 2016, decided to relaunch the group after recognising a gap in community support during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

The group is free to attend and open to anyone with a lung condition.

Jane said: "In the years I've worked as a Respiratory Nurse Specialist, I've seen first-hand how isolated people with lung conditions can feel. We wanted to create a safe, accessible space where people can not only learn more about managing their conditions but also find encouragement and understanding from others in similar situations.

"I've been so encouraged by the feedback we've received so far, but we want to support even more people to get involved and experience the benefits for themselves."

One attendee of the group, Alison Herdson, who has a congenital heart lung condition , praised the group, saying: "I have never been offered any help with living with my condition other than medical. It's nice to be able to talk to other people who understand what I'm going through."

Jane added: "Living with a lung condition can be isolating and difficult, but no one has to go through it alone. We are welcoming new members and encourage anyone affected or their carers to come along. We hope to grow into a strong community group that can also hold social and fundraising events in the future."

Parking is also free, at Macclesfield Leisure Centre, Priory Lane. (Image - Macclesfield Nub News)

The group is supported by Asthma + Lung UK and is part of the charity's nationwide network of Breathe Easy groups, which help individuals living with respiratory conditions lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Their next meet-up is Thursday, November 7, 2024.

Asthma + Lung UK's support groups are open to everyone, and you are welcome to drop in at any time. For more information, please contact Jane Kent:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: 01625 663380