By Mrs. Dorcas Akeju OBE, Public Advisor Co-Lead, Health and Care Across the Life Course

This World Asthma Day (6th May), I’ve taken time to reflect on the journey that has brought me here—across continents, through my work caring for mothers and babies, and into advocacy aimed at making a difference in the lives of people affected by asthma. The theme this year, “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL,” resonates deeply with me and the work I’ve dedicated myself to.

On Saturday the 3rd of May, I had the opportunity to speak to a group about the Breathe Easy Foundation, a charity, set up in memory of my late daughter, Lara, who tragically passed away from asthma and allergy-related complications. In my talk, I shared insights on the causes of asthma, the preventable nature of many of its complications, and, importantly, the need for accessible treatment options, particularly inhalers.

As someone who lives with asthma, I understand how important it is to have reliable access to the right treatment. Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions worldwide, and while it affects millions of people, it still claims a significant number of lives each year—many of which could be prevented with proper care. Sadly, a lack of access to necessary medications remains a major issue, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Through the Breathe Easy Foundation, we aim to address this gap. Each year, I work alongside our partners e.g. the Asthma Chest Care Foundation in Nigeria, where we distributed Ventolin inhalers to hospitals and clinics, particularly in smaller towns and villages. The feedback from patients—“seeing their relief and gratitude”—has been an incredibly moving part of this work.

The foundation was established not only to honour Lara’s memory but to help others who may not have the means to afford the treatment they need. My commitment to this cause comes from a place of deep personal experience and a desire to ensure that no one has to suffer unnecessarily when a solution is within reach.

My journey—from Nigeria to Liverpool, from midwife to campaigner—has always been about care, equity, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live a healthy life. In my role as Public Advisor Co-Lead at ARC NWC I work alongside others to ensure public voices are heard in shaping healthcare policies that impact people’s lives.

With the right inhaled treatments, people living with asthma can lead full, active lives. That’s why it’s so important that we work together to make sure everyone—regardless of where they live—has access to the medication they need to breathe easily.

On this World Asthma Day, I encourage everyone to reflect on how we can all contribute to making asthma care more accessible across the globe. Whether through raising awareness or supporting initiatives that provide vital medications, we can all play a part in improving lives.