A Norfolk support group has won national recognition of its work for families living with lung disease. The British Lung Foundation has presented two awards to Breathe Easy Norwich in its annual ‘Breathe of Fresh Air’ awards. They were in the category of ‘Outstanding Healthcare in the Community’ and ‘Outstanding Contribution to BLF Projects’.

Respiratory Nurse Specialists working in the Respiratory Department NNUH, Paula Browne and Sandra Olive were both regional and national winners in the awards.  They received certificates, flowers and a trophy which is a Victorian steam inhalation kettle presented by Dame Diana Britten, regional Chair of The British Lung Foundation.

Breathe Easy Norwich was set up in 1998 for people living with lung disease and their families and it has over 500 members across Norfolk.  It won the awards for the exceptional support it has provided for patients and carers affected by lung disease in Norfolk – for creating an environment where patients are able to support and empower each other; where patients and carers get access to much needed information; writing an award winning newsletter for those needing support at home; campaigning locally for better health care support and fundraised £10,000 towards British Lung Foundation research in the last year.

Breathe Easy Norwich has previously won this award in 2002, 2005 and 2008 and has donated £30,000 to BLF since 2006.  Additionally the group supports the purchase of equipment for local respiratory projects, both in the hospital and the community.

Special Achievement Awards were also presented to Breathe Easy Norwich members; Rosemary Brooks, Wes Reeve and Pam Findlay for their ‘Outstanding Contribution to Fundraising’.