Traveling With Asthma: Part II

Hiking, walking and skiing can be miserable if pollution or pollen is high or if the weather is extremely windy, dry and cold. A protective mask may be helpful while skiing. Remember to have rescue medication available at all times. If it is cold, keep the inhaler close to the body so it stays warm.

When your child is on his own…

Sending your child with asthma off to camp or an extended sleep-over can be daunting for everyone involved. Boy Scout camp was scary for me, but what a memorable and empowering experience for my son! You will feel better by being prepared, involving your child and doing some role informal playing to insure your child knows how to respond in a variety of situations.

Talk to the counselor or chaperone in advance. He/she should have a copy of your child’s asthma action plan, list of medications, emergency phone numbers and written/signed permission (this may need to be notarized) to care for your child in an emergency. Before your child leaves, review his asthma action plan, remind him of his triggers and have him repeat what he would do if he started to experience a flare. These are the new “three R’s.”

If possible, arrive at camp early so you have time to meet key personnel and introduce your child to them. At the end of the successful experience remember to say “thank you” to the staff for their exceptional care with a letter or token of your gratitude.

Whether you are vacationing as a family or sending a child off on a solo experience, memories are there, just waiting to be reviewed, relived and relished for years to come. Careful planning is your key to success. And most of all, remember to have fun!