By his first birthday, Joe had already faced serious breathing challenges, requiring four rounds of steroid treatment. Yet it wasn’t until he turned six, that he finally received the proper diagnosis and support he needed to truly thrive.
Joe’s mother, Tammie, vividly recalls the challenges Joe and the family faced during those early years. Sleep was a constant struggle, as Joe would wake frequently throughout the night, coughing and wheezing.
“We first noticed Joe’s breathing problems at a very young age,” Tammie shared. “He had four courses of steroids before his first birthday and rarely slept through the night. We knew the steroids weren’t good for him, but because he was so young, getting a formal diagnosis was difficult.”
Diagnosis and support – a turning point
When Joe turned six, he was referred to Respiratory Care WA for Lung Function Testing — a turning point in his journey.
“Our first experience with Respiratory Care WA’s Lung Function Test was really positive,” Tammie said. “It was simple for Joe to understand and participate in. As a parent — and an asthmatic myself — it was fascinating to see how far testing and care have progressed over the years.”
With a clear diagnosis, Joe was placed on a high-dose steroid inhaler to better support his breathing and reduce the need for oral steroids, especially during the winter months when he was most vulnerable.
“I use a preventer inhaler twice a day now and only use my Ventolin when I need it,” says Joe. “I also use a spacer to take my medication, which helps a lot.”
”I feel safer now that my asthma is controlled. I don’t feel so breathless after exercise — I can even run cross country at school!" - Joe
A new lease on life and BMX racing
Around the same time, Joe discovered a love for BMX racing. With his breathing no longer holding him back, he quickly rose through the ranks, achieving impressive results both locally and nationally.
“I’m second in WA and currently ranked sixth in Australia,” Joe proudly shares. “Dad first took me to a track to watch one day — we’ve never looked back. I love competing and racing with my friends, and it’s taken us all over Australia.”
Joe is now preparing for the upcoming National Championships and has even bigger dreams ahead.
“The Nationals start again at the end of this month, and I’ll be travelling with Dad for that,” he says. “He’s much happier now that my asthma is under control — it’s less worry for him. My goal is to eventually compete in the World Series, and I’m hoping to make that happen next year!”
