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Our Mission

The Boston Asthma Initiative (BAI) seeks to reduce the incidence of asthma morbidity and mortality among children. The BAI accomplishes this goal through a combination of home visits, school-based interventions, community-based forums, and strong ties with local health centers. We work to ensure that the critical spheres of a child’s life – home, school, health center, and community -- are integrated to reinforce and maintain proper asthma management.

Rosa Isela’s Story

Nine year old Rosa Isela was diagnosed with asthma at the age of two after an unexpected visit to the local emergency room. Rosa’s mom, Carmen Melendez remembers, “When the doctor told me my daughter had asthma, I was worried because asthma runs in my family. Rosa’s grandfather died during an asthma episode because he was not able to reach his pump.” Carmen deals with Rosa’s condition by keeping doctors’ appointments and following prescriptions for medication.

Last year Carmen met with the nurse practitioner at Children’s Hospital and learned about the BostonAsthma Initiative.Carmen and Rosa Isela received a home visit from the Health Educator at their home. BAI provided bedding encasements, a special vacuum, and information about pest control. Rosa also was eligible to participate in the BAI swim program offered for kids with asthma from ages 7 to 11. “I didn’t know swimming helps with asthma” said Rosa. We are thrilled that Rosa is in the program again this Fall. Her mom shares the sentiment, “I love the swim program because it helps my daughter to breathe better.”
Rosa’s mom says, “The home visits have been helping us to better understand and manage my daughter’s asthma and I want to thank you for inviting us into the program and for all your help.”

“I think every parent who has kids with asthma should find out more because asthma is a serious problem.” Youth in the BAI swim program with volunteers from Project Health at Hennigan Community Center pool. Asthma is a manageable disease.

Asthma is a manageable disease.
If you know a child who suffers from asthma call Boston Asthma Initiative (BAI) at 617.971.0863. Speak with Maria Sesma or Elaine Wallace for information about BAI programs in your area.