June 2025

MARC MY WORDS: Summertime Air Quality & Community

As we face another summer in Southern California, the question isn't just "How are you?' but "How are you breathing?" The warm air, the longer days, the return of outdoor gatherings, and our increasing contact with pollution and pollen, all remind us that clean air isn't just a backdrop in our lives, it's essential. For many of our neighbors, though, these hotter months bring more than just sunshine, they bring real risks. 

Seniors with chronic lung conditions like COPD, kids playing outside in areas with a high pollen count,  and families living close to freeways, are not abstract problems. They're personal. 

Did you know that children living near major roadways are not only more likely to develop asthma, but may also experience reduced lung function and impaired learning due to long-term exposure to air pollution? 

As a father of children who have asthma, I've seen firsthand how the hot (and often polluted) summer air can affect kids  with lung conditions: The tightness in the chest. The wheezing during playtime. The increasing coughing, the anxious nights for both the child and their parents.  These are things that no family should have to navigate without support.  Fortunately, this is what we do at Breathe Southern California.

We know that summer is an opportunity to connect with our neighbors, provide invaluable education about air pollution and lung conditions, and bring lung health resources into underserved communities. It is also a time to empower families with tools to breathe easier, especially during these hotter months. 

Whether it's planting a tree, volunteering at a local event, or checking in on an older neighbor with asthma to make sure theyhave the right support, small acts carry big impact. We are all part of the solution. For example, our Breathe Easier™ Asthma Management (BEAM) program has health educators making home visits to people with severe asthma and helping them address their symptoms by being more knowledgeable about managing their disease.  

Sharing information about this innovative program could make a big difference in the quality of breathing and ultimately the quality of life for those who sign up. 

We must never lose sight of the hope that drives us. And drive we do... 

All throughout Southern California the Breathe SoCal team members are making house calls to those who qualify, providing educational materials at community events and reminding our neighbors all across Southern California that they are not alone, and we're here to help. 

Let's make this a summer of clear skies, shared responsibility, and caring for others with open hearts (and healthy lungs).

In health,

Marc Carrel

President & CEO

Men's Health Starts With Air

Did you know that show that poor air quality can worsen symptom's of anxiety, depression, and cognitive stress, especially in vulnerable populations. Clean air doesn't just help us breathe, it helps us feel better too. Whether it's a deep breath during a walk, a moment of reflection, or a heartfelt conversation, taking care of your mind is just as essential as caring for your lungs. Let's continue to normalize mental health check-in and support for one another, one breath at a time.

Breathe SoCal's team was out in action at the recent health fair at the Gus Velasco Neighborhood Center. We connected with local residents, shared resources on lung health, and provided air filters to help families breathe easier at home, especially during these hotter months. Check out more photos from the event on our Instagram!

Did you know when temperatures rise, so the risks for children with asthma. Hot, polluted air can make out door play dangerous and indoor air isn't always safe easier. That's why it's important to stay prepared. From checking the air quality to using inhalers and nebulizers correctly, small steps can make a big difference. Let's work together to make this summer safer for every breath they take. Find out more about summer asthma tips HERE! and make sure to follow us on Instagram. @breathesocal

While things slow down in the summer, we're still showing up where it counts. Join us for a meaningful day of health, connection, and resources at our Community Lung Health Equity Event and our creative Sustainable Fashion Workshop on the 12th It's going to be "sew" much fun!😛 Together, we can make each breath this season a little easier.

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