Taking a Breath: My Asthma Journey

Tuesday 6th May marks World Asthma Day

A moment to raise awareness, share stories, and spotlight the importance of education, empowerment, and support for those living with asthma. At Inizio Engage, we believe in the power of lived experience to inspire change and drive better outcomes. Our colleague Preetam Virdee shares his personal journey with asthma, from childhood diagnosis to confident self-management. A powerful reflection on what it means to be supported, prepared, and empowered.

My journey with asthma

It was around the age of 12, just coming to the end of an asthma check-up, when I was told by the doctor that I probably wouldn’t need to see them again.

This came as a bit of a surprise to myself and to my mum. We had been to these check-ups every year for a while now, and our doctor seemed happy to just let me get on with handling my chronic disease.

However, before being discharged, my doctor let us know that we had been supported throughout the years to be able to get to this point. Year after year, I would be asked how I had been doing with my asthma, if I was struggling with anything and was given support in how to better manage my disease. This transition was still a bit of a shock and was quite scary at the time! Could I, a 12-year-old, manage my own disease and stay on top of everything? Could my parents keep up with it all too?

5 years on, at the age of 17, I had an asthma attack at school and was sent home to recover for the next few days. It took its toll on me, but my lived experience and the supporting information from my doctor all those years ago equipped me with the knowledge of what to do in the moment. The information and guidance from my many check-ups when I was younger helped me to know how to slow my breathing, when to use my inhaler and how to manage the situation. Without that understanding, knowledge and support, I would have required heavier medical assistance and a potential visit to A&E!

This self-management has continued and, for the last 15 years, I have been confident in my ability to manage my disease. I play football, go swimming and only really think about my asthma when the pollen count increases!

Some chronic diseases can be managed by the person suffering from them.

Empower patients by educating, guiding and supporting them to be able to be confident in managing their disease.

Preetam’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and education, people with chronic conditions like asthma can take control of their health and thrive. On World Asthma Day, let’s champion the role of proactive, patient-centred care — and continue working together to equip every individual with the confidence and tools they need to manage their condition.