For years, Samuel struggled with his breathing. At first, it was just being out of breath a little more quickly than his friends when playing or being unable to shake off a cough after a cold.
As time went by, Samuel’s ability to breathe became more difficult, more often. Worried, his family visited the GP on several occasions before they were referred to the team at Respiratory Care WA Children’s Respiratory Hub.
By this time, Samuel was experiencing serious asthma flare-ups, requiring emergency steroid treatment and using over-the-counter Ventolin regularly. Although his condition appeared to be asthma, the family were struggling to access specialist testing for an accurate diagnosis.
Samuel’s mum Kelly recalls the first day that she was contacted by the Respiratory Care WA team.
“Within days of the referral being sent to the team, I was contacted by Respiratory Care WA to talk through Samuel’s symptoms. The team found us appointments quickly and set up an initial call with Jess, the Clinical Lead for Children’s Respiratory Services.”
”We went from feeling lost within the system, to feeling heard and supported. Knowing that there were experts that we could phone or email, immediately made a difference," - Kelly.
Care and a clear diagnosis
At the Hub, Samuel received a thorough diagnosis following lung function testing. The specialist testing equipment showed that Sam had significant inflammation of his lungs. Respiratory Care WA Respiratory Specialist Dr Stephen Oo walked them through Sam’s condition and treatment options.
“From our very first visit, I felt confidence in the care and expertise of the Respiratory Care WA team. We left that appointment not just with answers—but with a plan and support,” says Kelly.
“We are so grateful for the services we received at the Hub. Samuel was quick to respond to treatment, but the follow-up from the team was exceptional in making sure he was on track and improving.”
“If I ever had a question or felt unsure, I could just call and speak to one of the nurses. That kind of support made such a difference.”
Living life to the fullest
Now, Samuel has a clear, up-to-date Asthma Action Plan. His school knows exactly what to do in the event of a flare-up, and he’s on the right medication—including a preventer that helps keep his asthma under control and allows him to do all the things he loves. Last year, Samuel completed a triathlon at school and competed in middle-distance events at the interschool athletics carnival, activities that would have been challenging 12 months earlier.
“Samuel is an active, happy kid who loves his sport,” says Kelly with a smile. “And asthma doesn’t get in the way anymore.”
Reflecting on their journey, Kelly shares, “without Respiratory Care WA’s Children’s Respiratory Hub, our journey to diagnosis and treatment for Samuel would have been much longer, much more stressful, and potentially serious for him. It’s an incredible service that’s made a huge difference to us. Please consider supporting Respiratory Care WA—your help means more children like Samuel can receive expert care and can continue to live full, active lives and truly thrive.”
