News - Page 2 of 11 - The Breathing Association

It’s Time for a Change

I looked forward to writing the November article to fit the “Thanksgiving” theme. The CDC’s “Tobacco Product Use Among Middle and High School Students-National Youth Tobacco Survey, United States, 2024”, Morbidity and Morality Weekly Report, /October 17, 2024, certainly gives us reason to be thankful. It shares that youth use of nicotine products has continued to decline yet adds that comprehensive and sustained evidence-based tobacco control strategies are needed. That is what I was planning to focus on. However, I recently received an email from a young man I had the privilege of formally working with. He emailed me asking if I could help or give him any direction in his time of need. He mentors and is the “Big Brother” of a young man who finds himself in a difficult situation. He was caught at school with a vape and then a vape was found in his car on school property. He is now facing expulsion.

As a former school administrator, I appreciate that schools are the “front lines” of our youth’s substance use and are uniquely positioned to identify and support students who may be addicted to nicotine or at risk of addiction. Schools can design their education and disciplinary practices to help prevent youth from starting and offer supportive approaches when students are caught using nicotine products. The CDC said, ” The most effective approaches to help students quit tobacco use are through counseling and education. “We must move away from the old mindset of zero tolerance policies and adopt appropriately structured “alternative-to-suspension” programs that incorporate cessation strategies and guide students toward quitting nicotine products while remaining in school.

The use of expulsion and suspension is shown to increase the likelihood of negative educational outcomes. These outcomes include lower test scores, higher dropout rates, and reduced likelihood of postsecondary education. It is important to understand that according to the U.S. Department of Education, there is a significant difference in the use of punitive discipline based on race and ethnicity of students. Black students are much more likely to be suspended and expelled. Moving away from punitive discipline and focusing on supportive approaches will have the benefit of supporting student academic achievement, improving health, and decreasing inequities.

It’s time for a change.

admin2024-11-06T16:34:07-05:00November 6th, 2024|Bruce Barcelo|

Things Aren’t Adding Up

I remember so well when I was an elementary school principal. I would love to drop by classrooms as students worked together with their teachers on math problems. Sometimes, a problem was a bit tricky, and the teacher had to help the students add it. Let me give you a problem, and let’s see if it adds up. First, I need to give you the structure of our problem. Commercial tobacco products must submit to the FDA a Premarket Tobacco Product Application for every product they wish to have on the market. The FDA has received millions of applications and only approved 27. Only 4 of them are flavored products. The FDA provides “authorization” for these products not “approval” as it does for food, drugs, and devices. None of the 27 authorized e-cigarettes have been authorized as a modified-risk tobacco product. It’s important to note that companies did not apply for a modified risk either. Why? They do not have the evidence to prove that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to combustible cigarettes or that they are an effective tool for quitting smoking.

None of the 27 authorized e-cigarettes are “disposable” or “single-use” vapes. This is an important concern not only for public health but for environmental reasons as well. With six disposable vapes being sold every second in the United States, the discarding of these products presents a significant environmental challenge. Once the e-liquid runs out, these devices contain a lithium-ion battery glued to them, which makes them nearly impossible to safely remove or recycle. The environmental toll of these products is a major concern.

Now, understanding all this, let’s solve this math problem. The FDA has approved only 27 e-cigarettes, and of those, 4 are flavored. Today there are over 9,000 flavored e-cigarettes available in the United States, sold in gas stations, corner stores, grocery stores, vape shops, and bars, all illegally.

How does that add up?

admin2024-11-06T16:31:38-05:00November 6th, 2024|Bruce Barcelo|

Tee it Up! For Charity Healthcare!

Tyler Dickerson2024-09-05T11:41:54-04:00September 5th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Nationwide Children’s Hospital Championship Charity Ticket Program

Tyler Dickerson2024-09-05T11:49:27-04:00September 5th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Need health insurance? Lost coverage? Get Covered Ohio can help you!

Click the link below to learn how easy it is to get covered and learn more about Medicaid in Ohio. Already have Medicaid? Also learn what changes are coming, and make sure your information is up to date!

Click here: https://getcoveredohio.org/

Tyler Dickerson2024-09-04T14:49:43-04:00September 4th, 2024|Uncategorized|

WHAT’S NEXT?

There have been multiple iterations of vaping devices over a relatively short span of time. The first commercially successful electronic cigarette was developed by Hon Lik, a pharmacist from China in 2003. The first generation of commercially successful electronic cigarettes were the “cig-a-likes”. The second generation of e-cigarettes were “box” or “mods” because you could modify your device. The third, and most impactful generation, was the pod. This is when in 2015, the Juul e-cigarette was introduced. The fourth generation and where we currently are, is the disposable e-cigarette. Within this generation, we have the development of synthetic nicotine, and now, 6-methyl synthetic nicotine the FDA doesn’t yet have authority to regulate.

I have gone through the iterations because it is important to see how this industry is always evolving. Sometimes, it is to evade the federal government and sometimes to keep consumers engaged and curious. They know youth are always looking for the next big thing to try and post on social media. That is where this newest evolution is coming from.

I give you the interactive disposable vape. These products have touch screens, animated displays, and built-in games. One company sells a disposable vape that has three retro games, one being Pacman. Another has a roulette wheel that the owner spins. They can earn points that can be submitted for prizes. So now we need to be concerned about a youth having a nicotine addiction and a gaming addiction. There is now the first Bluetooth disposable vape being sold. I purchased one to see if it works as advertised. I was able to name the device, “BAB”. Put a picture of myself on BAB. Put BAB in another room and track it. The last one I will mention does several things. Every time you puff, you earn food to feed your virtual pet. In another game, count your puffs so that you can submit your score on social media for rankings and win prizes. (Does this concern anyone?)

Friends, this is just the beginning. Interactive devices that have addictive substances in them. They could not be targeting youth, could they?

Tyler Dickerson2024-08-12T09:51:30-04:00August 12th, 2024|Bruce Barcelo|

Independence

July is a month that we think of our nation’s independence. We cannot do that without thinking of how through the years the sacrifices young Americans in military have given. But have you given pause to consider not only war hazards but the tobacco addiction and disease addiction history that was created by the tobacco industry and politicians and has diminished our militaries readiness.

In 1917, before World War 1, cigarettes (a four pack) became a standard in K-ration boxes which meant soldiers received 12 cigarettes per day. If a soldier wanted more, they were a nickel a pack or 50 cents a carton. As a result, tobacco consumption skyrocketed during the war. At that time, tobacco was considered so important for soldiers’ morale and fighting boredom, General Pershing said “You ask me what we need to win this war. I answer tobacco as much as bullets. Tobacco is as indispensable as the daily ration; we must have thousands of tons without delay”.

Even when the military decided to stop supplying cigarettes to servicemen and women, big tobacco began sending free cigarettes to the military. When the military declined their offer, politicians from states where tobacco was produced intervened.

Years ago, I was working with our local V.A. Hospital to become a Tobacco-Free Hospital. That’s not possible because by U.S. law, every V.A. must provide a heated and airconditioned facility for veterans in which to smoke. I visited this site. It was a very large greenhouse-like building at the back of the V.A. Hospital. Some vets would walk back there with their oxygen tanks, park them outside, and go inside to smoke. I talked to some who had gone through heart surgeries, those who had COPD, and several who had amputations. I spoke to one of the maintenance workers and he told me that they had to change the air filters every month.

If we are addicted, we are never free. May freedom ring.

Tyler Dickerson2024-07-09T16:13:09-04:00July 9th, 2024|Bruce Barcelo|

The Breathing Association cuts the ribbon on a new location, June 25th, 2024

On Tuesday, The Breathing Association hosted a ribbon cutting celebration at our new building located at 741 East Broad Street. The momentous occasion marked not only our relocation, but our nearly 120 years of service to the community. The event was made possible by generous sponsorships from Behal Law Group and AndHealth.

The celebration began with opening remarks from President & CEO, Lori Sontag as well as Chairman of the Board, Edward Frantz. Ohio State Representative Dontavius Jarrells joined them to share his sentiments on the profound services that The Breathing Association provides to the community. Ohio State Senator Hearcal Craig was unable to attend but sent kind remarks to be shared on his behalf, “…Today, as we cut this ribbon, we are not just opening a new building; we are opening the doors to new opportunities, new hope, and a brighter, healthier future for Columbus…”. A blessing of the occasion was given by Pastor Amy Miracle, of the Broad Street Presbyterian Church, and a reflective moment on the rich history was shared by long time former Board Member, Robert Behal. The celebration continued with a presentation of the Carrie Nelson Black Stewardship Award to Jim Havens of Havens Limited, for his outstanding support making ou relocation to the new facility possible.

The ribbon was cut, and guests were given a full tour of the new facility, seeing our full vision of the next 120 years of service to Central Ohioans. The event was attended by partners, sponsors, board members, community neighbors, a Columbus City Council Member, and friends of The Breathing Association. The celebration was also the official kickoff of the 2024 Breathe Strong, Live Long Capital Campaign that will raise $1.5 Million for the renovations and repairs to the building.

Strategically located on East Broad Street, the new facility provides ample space to accommodate our rapid growth and better serve the community’s needs. With an emphasis on accessibility, the relocation ensures that patients can easily access the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center for essential post-hospitalization care. By expanding medical facilities, including exam rooms and mobile diagnostic capabilities, The Breathing Association aims to enhance patient care and reduce hospital readmissions, ultimately lowering healthcare costs. To showcase our legacy in the community, we now have The Carrie Nelson Black Library, with historical books, keepsakes and photographs to share with guests.

Additionally, the new location will enable the organization to expand its outreach efforts, particularly in tobacco cessation and education through the Tobacco Treatment Center of Ohio. Moreover, increased capacity for the Ohio Department of Development Household Energy Assistance Program will facilitate smoother operations and better support for families facing utility burdens.

Volunteers are the heart of every nonprofit organization, and the relocation and renovations would not have gone as smoothly as they have without a dedicated team of volunteers lending time and talents. Leadership, staff and family have given countless hours of their time to make the new location a new home for The Breathing Association.

Since its founding in 1906 by Carrie Nelson Black during the Tuberculosis epidemic, The Breathing Association has been a cornerstone of charitable healthcare in Central Ohio. With a legacy of providing free healthcare services and extensive programs in lung health, nicotine cessation, and community assistance, the organization remains committed to improving lives for the next 120 years and beyond.

“We are delighted to celebrate this milestone in our organization’s history and look forward to continuing our mission of promoting lung health and wellness in Central Ohio,” said Lori Sontag, President & CEO of The Breathing Association.

Tyler Dickerson2024-07-09T15:34:22-04:00July 9th, 2024|Uncategorized|

The Breathing Association to host ribbon cutting to celebrate relocation to E Broad Street

June 25^th, 2024 at 2pm-4pm

Columbus, OH – The Breathing Association will celebrate the grand opening of our new facility at 741 East Broad Street with a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 25th at 2pm. This momentous occasion marks not only the our relocation but also nearly 120 years of service to the community.

The event is made possible through generous sponsorships from Encova Insurance and AndHealth.

Our celebration will be attended by over 300 esteemed guests including partners, sponsors, friends, and government officials from the city, county, and state levels. Confirmed speakers include CEO Lori Sontag, and Board Chair Ed Frantz, who will share opening remarks, as well as other special guests. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour the new facility guided by our leadership team.

Strategically located on East Broad Street, our new facility provides ample space to accommodate our rapid growth and to better serve the community’s needs. With an emphasis on accessibility, the relocation ensures that patients can easily access the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center for essential post-hospitalization care. By expanding medical facilities, including exam rooms and mobile diagnostic capabilities, The Breathing Association aims to enhance patient care and reduce hospital readmissions, ultimately lowering healthcare costs.

Additionally, our new location will enable the organization to expand outreach efforts, particularly in tobacco cessation and education through the Tobacco Treatment Center of Ohio. Moreover, increased capacity for the Ohio Department of Development Household Energy Assistance Program will facilitate smoother operations and better support for families facing utility burdens.

Since its founding in 1906 by Carrie Nelson Black during the Tuberculosis epidemic, The Breathing Association has been a cornerstone of charitable healthcare in Central Ohio. With a legacy of providing free healthcare services and extensive programs in lung health, nicotine cessation, and community assistance, the organization remains committed to improving lives for the next 120 years and beyond.

“We are delighted to celebrate this milestone in our organization’s history and look forward to continuing our mission of promoting lung health and wellness in Central Ohio,” said Lori Sontag, President & CEO of The Breathing Association.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact:

Jennifer Burroway
Director of Development & Marketing
The Breathing Association
Email: [email protected]

Tyler Dickerson2024-06-24T14:19:29-04:00June 24th, 2024|Uncategorized|

Central Ohio nonprofit buys historic Near East Side building

A historic Near East Side building has a new owner.

The Breathing Association plans to move to the building at 741 E. Broad St. in July. Jim Havens, principal at Havens Limited, bought the building for the nonprofit, and the organization is leasing it from him with the option to eventually buy it, CEO Lori Sontag said.

The building was put on the National Register of Historic Places in the 1980s.

The 117-year-old Breathing Association was founded during the tuberculosis outbreak in the 19th century. The nonprofit is the oldest free clinic in Ohio, and serves anyone with any lung health condition, including cessation from smoking or vaping, Sontag told me.

The Breathing Association also helps Central Ohioans with utility bills. In 2023, the organization helped more than 40,000 with their utilities.

The organization is funded mostly by donations and grants, said Jennifer Burroway, director of development for the Breathing Association.

Havens bought the Broad Street building for about $1 million. The Breathing Association is making some improvements to the inside of the building, built in 1942, which will cost another $5oo,ooo, Sontag said. Wellogy, a Dublin-based architect that specializes in healthcare design, is designing the modifications.

Moving the nonprofit to Broad Street will allow the Breathing Association to grow. It’s currently located on the first floor of the Columbus Urban League building on the Near East Side.

“Over the last two years, our growth caused us to need more space,” Sontag said. “We’ve seen that the demand is there; we think we’ll see more growth, especially in our clinic.”

The new building will allow the nonprofit to expand the clinic to treat broader health and wellness issues, Burroway said. The new location also has room for the Breathing Association to start a pulmonary rehabilitation center.

“We’re needed in the community,” Sontag said. “Without us, there would be a heavier burden on our area medical systems or people would have high medical bills that they never pay off.”

Netcare Access, a mental health clinic, previously owned the building.

Mike Simpson and Andrew Green of NAI Ohio Equities represented the seller in this deal.

Tyler Dickerson2024-06-24T12:44:38-04:00June 24th, 2024|Uncategorized|