If Shammara Norris could have her way, she’d drive a mobile clinic around Texas and treat every asthma sufferer, adults and children. It’s her heart’s desire “To educate, empower and transform asthmatics to prevail over this serious disease,” according to the mission statement of Positive Breathing Organization, an organization she founded to help those who suffer with this chronic lung disease. One of her biggest concerns is children who are given too many steroids and gaining too much weight, which increases risk of diabetes.
Positive Breathing Organization recently purchased a charter bus and announced a capital campaign to raise $25,000 to transform it into a mobile clinic.
Here, Norris sheds some light on asthma and ways for you to support the Positive Breathing Organization.
Who are the beneficiaries of the Positive Breathing Organization?
It helps the children who suffer with asthma and the caregivers who love them, and the adult population.
Who’s at highest risk for asthma?
The indigent population and minorities suffer the most.
What kinds of service(s) will the mobile clinic provide?
The mobile clinic will provide free treatment and screening for asthmatics, asthma education and management and followup care.
How many youth do you anticipate serving?
We’ve served about 550 students this year. Once we become mobile, we’ll be able to serve more.
What type of fundraising efforts do you have in place?
We host an open mic fundraiser yearly. Our next event, with the help of our PR team, will be a cocktail event and a silent auction in May, which is Asthma Awareness Month.
How can readers keep up with your progress and offer support?
Facebook: Positive Breathing Organization
Twitter: asthmaspeaks
Instagram: asthmachasers
www.positivebreathing.org
