From the Chair of Asthma Canada’s Medical and Scientific Advisory Committee, Dr. Susan Waserman:
I’m proud to share that we recently launched Asthma Canada’s new National Research Strategy. This is a transformational moment — powered by people like you, our dedicated donor community, who believe that asthma deserves a louder voice, deeper investment, and real progress.
Our strategy isn’t just about chasing the next big breakthrough. It’s about building the foundation to discover it. That means funding the bold ideas of emerging researchers. It means encouraging young scientists to choose asthma as their life’s focus. It means forging collaborations across immunology, allergy, and respiratory medicine. And it means focusing not only on treatments, but also on prevention, early detection, and finding a cure.
One of the most impactful recent advancements in asthma care is biologics — targeted therapies offering hope to people with severe asthma when nothing else has worked. These medications reduce emergency room visits, limit the use of harmful steroids, and help patients reclaim their lives.
That is why research is so important. It changes people’s lives. It’s as simple as that.
Advancements that come through Canadian research don’t stop in the laboratory. Asthma Canada helps to translate complex research to the patient community so that patients and families across the country understand what is happening in research and how it benefits them and their loved ones. Asthma Canada also plays a key role in connecting patients with opportunities to get involved in asthma research, such as promoting clinical trials of new medications.
Too many myths still surround asthma — like the belief that asthma cannot be life-threatening or that those living with asthma should not play sports or exercise like others do.
We know that half of asthma patients in Canada lack proper disease management. Many never receive specialist care. And when they take their medication incorrectly — or not at all — their symptoms are not well-controlled, and the consequences can be life-threatening.
We know that change doesn’t happen overnight. Research takes time, steadfast commitment, and ongoing investment. I understand the desire to see immediate results. But your gift today goes far beyond a single moment.
It helps create a future where millions more people living with asthma in Canada can live freely — without fear, without limitations, and without the constant struggle to breathe.
Simply put, your meaningful gift ensures we can fund the research to obtain more answers. Your support is the key. There’s no other way to say it. Without you, we can’t move forward.
We’re ready. We have a bold, evidence-based strategy. Now we need you, standing with us, shoulder to shoulder, to fund the research, inspire the next generation of experts, and offer hope to every person in Canada living with asthma.
With deep appreciation,
Dr. Susan Waserman
Chair, Medical and Scientific Advisory Committee
Asthma Canada
Asthma Can’t Be Overlooked
Asthma doesn’t just affect lungs — it steals breath, disrupts childhoods, limits careers, and may turn everyday moments into emergencies.
Imagine your child gasping for air on the playground. Or your grandparent struggling through the night just to breathe.
This is the daily reality for many of the more than 4.6 million people in Canada living with asthma. It is predicted that by 2030, that number may climb to over 6 million, from toddlers to seniors.
Yet asthma remains one of the most overlooked and underfunded chronic diseases in the country. While other diseases receive widespread attention, asthma is too often dismissed, misunderstood, and dangerously underestimated.
Your gift today will help us change this. Please donate now.