Breathe Easy to hold Health Fair

Scottish counterpart groups, Breathe Easy Kirkcaldy, Clyde Valley and North East Fife will travel over 200 miles to attend the event A variety of health professionals will be present, offering a range of health checks including lung function, blood pressure, vision and cholesterol tests.

There will also be professional advice on condition management and lifestyle, from experts such as pharmacists, opticians, reflexologists and exercise co-ordinators.

An array of exhibitors are due to attend, offering information on topics ranging from benefits to mental illness.

Breathe Easy Causeway was inspired to invite its Scottish counterparts after attending an event in Kirkcaldy last year. Since then, relations have blossomed between the two groups. Breathe Easy Kirkcaldy will be attending the upcoming health fair, along with Breathe Easy Clyde Valley, Breathe Easy North East Fife and Derry Breathe Easy.

For those with respiratory conditions, the logistics of travelling with equipment can be obstructively difficult. As a result, many of the members arriving from Scotland will never have had a holiday before. The support offered by Breathe Easy groups, has made the trip possible.

British Lung Foundation Development Officer, Nessie Blair, said: “I’m very much looking forward to the upcoming health fair. Breathe Easy Causeway has put such a lot of effort into shaping a really interesting event. There definitely is something for everyone.

“These days, we’re all so busy looking after our family and friends that sometimes it’s easy to neglect our own health. This event is a great opportunity for all of us to make sure we’re looking after ourselves too.”

Sam Kelly, Chair of Breathe Easy Causeway said: “The health fair is shaping up to be a great day. We’ve had such a lot of enthusiasm from the professionals and the range of exhibitors is really exciting. Everyone is welcome to attend.

“I’m thrilled that the Scottish Breathe Easy groups are making such an effort to come across for the event. Travel can be difficult when you have a respiratory condition, but since we’re all in the same boat, we know what support is required and will do everything we can to make our guests welcome.”

Agnes Whyte, Chair of Breathe Easy Kirkcaldy said: “Breathe Easy Kirkcaldy is delighted to be supporting the health fair in Coleraine. We’re all really looking forward to the event.

“When Breathe Easy Causeway came to Scotland last year, a lot of friendships were made. I’m really pleased we’re continuing to support each other.

Head of British Lung Foundation Scotland & Northern Ireland, Dr James Cant, said: “I’m so impressed with all the work that has gone into the upcoming health fair - on both sides of the Irish Sea. The event promises to be a really enjoyable day and I’m very much looking forward to it.”