Holley students learn how to manage asthma

A group of Holley Elementary School students recently took part in an asthma management program, Open Airways for Schools (OAS), through the American Lung Association of Western New York. The purpose of the OAS program is to make it easier for children to manage their asthma, better their attendance record, and lead healthier lives. According to the American Lung Association, children who have completed the OAS program have shown increased performance in school, demonstrated more confidence in their ability and took more steps to manage their asthma, and had fewer episodes of asthma and episodes of shorter duration.

"OAS is a great way for students to learn to live with and manage asthma," said Julie Kirby, school nurse. "With controlling asthma effectively, the students can increase their grades, decrease absenteeism, and increase their self esteem. And it's a great way for them to learn to live healthier lives."

After completing the six 40-minute lessons, the school held a "graduation ceremony" to which parents were invited. Parents also had an opportunity to talk with a therapeutic specialist and representative from the American Lung Association.