Agnes Whyte from Breathe Easy which is part of the British Lung
Foundation was the speaker on Wednesday. She explained that there are
three networks on our doorstep in Fife one in Kirkcaldy, one in
Dunfermline and another in St Andrews to help people who have difficulty
in breathing. As well as helping those who are the one in five who
have a problem with their breathing they also help and support friends
and family. The main problems arise from smoking and environmental
problems.. She also talked about home improvements and how asbestos is a
major problem and how we now use masks to protect ourselves but this
was not always the case.
Many people
with a breathing problem have to use inhalers and are reluctant to go
out. To help with this problem Agnes talked about singing and how a
recently formed choir had been a great success. She also warned us
about household items which adversely affect our breathing. Items
containing chlorine like plug-in house fresh-smelling items. Hair
spray and deodorants should be used with care and when using oven
cleaner we should use a mask to protect ourselves. Good soap and water
can be just as effective for oven cleaning without risks to breathing.
George
Finlay gave the vote of thanks and thanked Agnes for her excellent talk
concluding with the words - "Agnes you are a breath of fresh air".